Who pays for black mold removal in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I suspect it's from black mold I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe. It's been so humid lately and this wall feels damp. Our one-year rental contract in Jumeirah Village Circle is up for renewal soon. Am I responsible for paying to fix this, or is it the landlord's duty to handle the remediation?
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Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues that affect its habitability. A damp wall causing black mold is typically considered a structural or maintenance defect, placing the onus on the property owner to rectify it.
However, the liability can shift if the tenant is found to have caused the excessive moisture, for instance, by failing to use the provided AC system properly or through negligent behavior that leads to dampness. Given the high humidity in JVC, the core issue is likely inadequate waterproofing or a leaking pipe within the wall cavity, which is definitively the landlord's responsibility to investigate and repair. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, including clear photos of the mold and the damp wall. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and worsen your family's health symptoms, like that persistent cough. We strongly recommend a professional indoor environmental inspection to identify the exact moisture source and the species of mold present. This certified report will be crucial evidence for your landlord and, if necessary, the Dubai Rental Dispute Center. For immediate assistance with testing and a comprehensive remediation quote, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not renew your contract until this significant health hazard is fully resolved. |
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