Is musty smell from hidden mold causing symptoms? Who's responsible?« Back to Previous Page

The musty smell and the reported symptoms of itchy eyes and sneezing fits could indeed be signs of hidden mold. Mold spores can release substances that irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, leading to such reactions. Hidden mold is particularly problematic as it often thrives in areas where moisture or humidity levels are high—like those corners in your living room following heavy rains.

In the UAE, especially in Dubai, there have been instances of hidden mold growth due to poor maintenance or insufficient drainage systems. The Emirate has its own set of standards and regulations regarding building and environmental safety, which can affect who is responsible for addressing such issues. In a rental property, it's important to understand your rights and obligations.

If the musty smell persists and the symptoms are severe, I recommend scheduling a professional inspection. This will not only confirm if hidden mold is present but also assess its extent and potential health risks. Saniservice, for example, offers comprehensive mold inspection services that adhere to local regulations and standards.

Saniservice can be reached at 800-MOLDS or by email at hello@saniservice.com. They will send a certified inspector who will gather samples from the suspected areas to test for mold presence. Depending on their findings, they may recommend remediation steps which could include removing contaminated materials and treating surfaces with specialized cleaning agents.

As far as responsibility is concerned, in a rental property, it generally falls upon the landlord to maintain the premises in good condition. However, tenants are also responsible for reporting any issues promptly. If you notice signs of hidden mold or water damage, communicate this to your landlord immediately. In many cases, Dubai's Landlord and Tenant Law requires landlords to address such issues within a reasonable time frame.

Remember that early detection and remediation can prevent long-term health impacts and costly repairs down the line. Regular inspections in areas prone to moisture, like basements or corners near windows, are advisable, especially after weather events such as heavy rains.

In conclusion, while the musty smell may seem minor, it's best not to ignore it, particularly with reported symptoms affecting your family. Contacting a professional service and reporting the issue to your landlord are both key steps in addressing this potential health hazard.