Black mold in apartment: landlord or tenant responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Black spots that return after wiping are likely mould, typically caused by excess interior moisture. In Dubai's humid climate, especially with year-round AC use creating condensation, this is a common issue in buildings with insufficient insulation or ventilation leaks.

Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as persistent dampness or leaking AC condensation lines that cause mould. Tenants are generally responsible for general cleanliness and damage they directly cause.

Since the mould is recurring and in the master bedroom, the source is likely a hidden issue. Document the spots with dated photos and notify your landlord or building management in writing. Request they investigate the root cause, which could be a leaking pipe, faulty window seal, or inadequate external wall waterproofing—all structural issues typically under their purview.

Do not attempt to paint over or chemically treat it yourself, as this can void liability. A professional indoor environmental assessment can identify the moisture source and mould type, which provides concrete evidence for your landlord. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai, as unresolved dampness affects the property's habitability.