Who is responsible for mold removal in my Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for about a year, and just last week I pulled our sofa away from the wall to find a huge patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading from the corner. It’s right on an exterior wall and the musty smell is really strong now that we’ve found it. Who is responsible for getting this professionally treated and paying for it, me as the tenant or the building management/landlord?
Posted by Mona Al-Maktoum
Asked on March 28, 2026 4:27 am
The responsibility for mold remediation in a Dubai apartment is typically dictated by the cause of the infestation, as outlined in standard tenancy contracts and Dubai rental law. As a certified mold inspector, the first step is always a professional investigation to determine the moisture source.

In your case, the mold's location on an exterior wall in JVC is a critical clue. This strongly suggests a structural issue, such as a leak from a faulty sealant, a crack in the building envelope, or inadequate insulation. These are considered defects in the property's structure, making the responsibility for investigation and repair that of the building management or landlord. The tenant's responsibility is generally limited to moisture generated from within the apartment, like poor ventilation leading to condensation from showers or cooking, or damage from an unreported internal leak.

However, the persistent high humidity of Dubai's climate, combined with year-round air conditioning that can cause significant condensation if units are undersized or poorly maintained, often creates a complex scenario. A professional inspection is non-negotiable here. We would conduct moisture mapping and air quality testing to definitively identify the source and type of mold (e.g., Stachybotrys, or "black mold," requires specific protocols).

You must formally notify your landlord and building management immediately with photographic evidence. They are obligated to address the structural defect. For the actual remediation, we strongly advise against DIY methods for a infestation of this size. Improper handling can aerosolize toxins and spread contamination. The remediation must be handled by a certified company like Saniservice to ensure it is removed safely, the source is corrected, and the air is properly purified to prevent recurrence.

For immediate professional assessment and a clear path forward, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 8:06 am