Who pays to fix mold in rented property?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly within the context of Dubai, addressing mold issues within rented properties can sometimes be a bit tricky. The key to resolving this situation lies mainly on understanding local laws and the terms outlined in your rental agreement.

According to UAE Real Estate Law, it is generally the landlord's responsibility to maintain the property in good condition. This includes ensuring that there are no hazardous conditions such as mold growth. However, this doesn't automatically mean that they must immediately address every single mold issue that arises after a tenant reports one - especially if there’s no direct evidence of negligence or failure on their part.

For your specific case, given the recent rain and the symptoms your daughter is experiencing, it would be prudent to conduct an inspection with a professional. Mold can indeed trigger asthma attacks in sensitive individuals, leading to coughing and difficulty breathing, especially at night. If mold is confirmed as the cause of her symptoms, you should document this thoroughly.

Before engaging Saniservice or any other remediation company, start by sending your landlord a formal notice outlining your concerns about the musty smell and subsequent health issues. This can be done via email or post; ensure that your communication is clear and backed up with photographic evidence if possible. Highlighting local laws such as Article 167 of the Civil Code of the UAE which mandates landlords to maintain habitability, might strengthen your case.

If after sending this notice you do not receive a satisfactory response from your landlord, you have several options:
• Engage Saniservice or another qualified remediation company for an inspection and remediation. This can cost between AED 2000 - 5000 depending on the severity of the mold issue.
• Contact the real estate department in Dubai Municipality (now part of DMCC) to file a complaint about the health hazard caused by the mold.
• If all else fails, seeking legal advice from a local lawyer specializing in property law can provide further guidance and possibly enforce your rights under UAE laws.

It's important to act promptly as delaying could worsen the situation for you and potentially expose your family to more serious health risks. Remember, while it might be challenging, staying informed about your rights and responsibilities, and taking proactive steps, will help ensure a healthier living environment.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you need immediate assistance or guidance on the next actions to take.