Who is responsible for removing black mold, landlord or me?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold removal depends on the cause. Your landlord is generally responsible for fixing the underlying issue causing the mold, such as a leak in the building's structure, faulty waterproofing, or a broken AC unit that is producing excess condensation. As the tenant, you are typically responsible for issues stemming from your own activities, like inadequate ventilation leading to humidity buildup.

Given that the mold started after the heavy rains and is near the AC unit, the cause is likely a leak or condensation from the AC system—both structural or mechanical issues that fall under the landlord's maintenance obligations. The persistent dampness you describe is a strong indicator of a building-related fault, not just daily living humidity.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the mold and its potential link to your children's coughing, requesting immediate inspection and remediation. Under Dubai rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords must maintain the property to ensure it is habitable. For a case like this with visible black mold and health symptoms, a professional inspection is critical to identify the exact moisture source. A certified inspector can provide a report that definitively establishes the cause, which strengthens your case with the landlord. In Dubai's climate, where ACs run year-round and high humidity is common, this type of condensation-related mold is a frequent issue in buildings with inadequate insulation or maintenance.