Who pays for black mold in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes the building envelope, roof, and central air conditioning systems. If the black mold originates from a structural defect like a leaking pipe in the ceiling, a faulty AC drain line from the building's system, or water ingress from outside, the repair and remediation cost falls to the landlord.

However, if the cause is determined to be tenant-related—such as failure to use the AC adequately to control humidity, blocking ventilation grilles, or an internal leak you caused—you could be held liable. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, especially during summer months, means AC systems must run consistently to remove moisture from the air; condensation buildup is a primary driver of mold growth around vents and on cold surfaces.

Given its location near the AC vent and the timing with high humidity, this is a common scenario. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos, requesting a professional inspection to identify the source. Do not attempt to simply paint over it, as the underlying moisture issue must be solved.

For a definitive answer on liability, a professional inspection is crucial to diagnose the root cause. An inspector can determine if it's a building AC drain blockage, insufficient insulation causing condensation (a common issue in JVC apartments), or an internal leak. This documented report from a certified provider is your strongest evidence in any dispute with the landlord over who should pay for the necessary remediation.