Is it reasonable to address mold with landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Absolutely reasonable to address mold concerns with your landlord, especially considering the UAE's stringent building regulations and standards. In Dubai/UAE, properties must adhere to certain guidelines to ensure occupant health and comfort, including measures against dampness and mold growth.

The musty smell you're experiencing in your basement could indeed be a sign of mold or other moisture-related issues. Given that it has persisted since the rain incident last month, it's wise to get this checked out professionally. The UAE Environment Agency (EPA) guidelines mandate regular inspections for damp-proofing and mold prevention, particularly in areas prone to high humidity like basements.

It is crucial to document any changes in health symptoms, such as increased coughing among your children, and correlate these with the timeline of when you noticed the smell. This will help build a case that there might be a direct link between their respiratory issues and the mold or dampness in the area.

I strongly recommend scheduling an inspection by a certified environmental expert, who can provide a professional assessment and potentially even remediate any identified issues. Saniservice is one such company based here in Dubai; they offer reliable services for mold inspections and remediation. You might consider calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com to set up an appointment.

In the meantime, avoid exacerbating the situation by minimizing activities that could spread spores around the home like vacuuming or sweeping, unless you have a HEPA filter attachment. It’s also wise to reduce humidity levels in affected areas; dehumidifiers can be beneficial, but ensure they are properly maintained and emptied regularly.

Addressing this promptly is important not only for your family's health but also to maintain the structural integrity of your property. Mold growth can weaken building materials over time and lead to more severe issues if left unchecked.

Remember, in accordance with UAE laws, landlords are responsible for maintaining properties to ensure they are safe and habitable for tenants. Therefore, bringing up these concerns directly with them is not only reasonable but also necessary.