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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that's been creeping along the ceiling in our master bedroom closet. It started as a few spots after that really humid week last month, but now it's a huge patch. I’ve told my landlord about it, but he says it's our fault for not ventilating properly. Who is actually responsible for getting this removed and paying for it?
Posted by Jing Suzuki
Asked on April 5, 2026 11:30 am
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing issues like black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), which is a direct result of building envelope failures, pre-existing water intrusion, or faulty AC systems that lead to excessive condensation. The landlord's claim that improper ventilation is the sole cause is often an attempt to shift liability; while tenant habits can contribute, the primary responsibility for the building's physical condition lies with the property owner.

In Dubai's climate, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC, mold growth is a common symptom of underlying problems. The persistent dampness causing the mold in your closet is likely due to a leak in the roof or plumbing, poor insulation creating cold spots (thermal bridging), or a malfunctioning AC unit causing excessive condensation. These are all structural or mechanical defects the landlord must rectify.

Given the visible extent of the growth and the associated health symptoms (coughing in children), this is a serious issue requiring immediate professional intervention. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as disturbing the mold can aerosolize toxic mycotoxins. A certified mold inspection is critical to identify the precise moisture source, assess the contamination level through air and surface sampling, and provide a legally defensible report for your landlord.

We strongly recommend you contact a professional environmental service like Saniservice. Our certified experts can conduct a comprehensive inspection, provide a detailed report outlining the cause and necessary remediation steps—which you can present to your landlord—and safely execute the complete removal process. For immediate assistance, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Your family's health is paramount.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 8, 2026 12:31 am