Who pays for black mold removal, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing a lot this past month, and I just found a bunch of black mold hidden behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle. It seems like it might be from a small water leak in the wall that I never noticed before. Who is responsible for dealing with this and the cost of repairs, me as the tenant or the landlord?
Posted by Seung Kobayashi
Asked on March 29, 2026 2:42 am
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 and its amendments, the responsibility for major structural repairs and issues arising from the property's inherent condition falls upon the landlord. This includes rectifying faults in the main building infrastructure, such as hidden plumbing leaks within the walls, which are the root cause of your mold problem in Jumeirah Village Circle.

As a tenant, your responsibility is typically limited to reporting the issue in a timely manner and covering the cost of minor maintenance. However, since this black mold growth is a direct result of a concealed water leak in the wall—a structural defect you were not aware of—the financial responsibility for the remediation and repairs should lie with the property owner. It is crucial to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the discovery and including photographic evidence. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and worsen the air quality, exacerbating your children's coughing.

Given the health implications and the potential for structural damage, we strongly recommend a professional assessment. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify the exact moisture source, assess the full extent of contamination (often more widespread than visible), and provide a detailed, legally defensible report for your landlord. The humid Dubai climate and constant AC use can cause condensation issues that compound leak-related problems, making expert diagnosis critical. For immediate assistance with inspection and a certified report, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 2:55 pm