Who is responsible for black mold removal in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that's been spreading in our bedroom closet in Silicon Oasis. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, but it's gotten way worse since the humidity spiked last month. The landlord says it's our fault for not ventilating properly. Who is actually responsible for the cleanup and cost of fixing this in a rental?
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Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the cause of the moisture.
The landlord is legally responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for maintaining it in a habitable condition. This includes addressing issues originating from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes within the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or a compromised building envelope that allows water ingress. The persistent high humidity and condensation common in Dubai's climate, especially during summer months, can exacerbate these underlying issues. The tenant's responsibility generally covers maintaining the property through adequate ventilation and reasonable daily care. This means regularly using exhaust fans, ensuring AC units are set to a reasonable temperature to manage humidity (ideally below 60% RH), and not blocking ventilation grilles. If the mold is proven to be solely a result of tenant negligence, such as completely failing to use the provided air conditioning or ventilation systems, the cost of cleanup could fall to them. In your specific case in Silicon Oasis, the sudden worsening coinciding with a humidity spike strongly suggests an underlying moisture issue that proper tenant ventilation could not have entirely prevented. The landlord's assertion is often a first-line defense. To resolve this, a professional mold inspection is critical. A certified inspector, like those at Saniservice, will conduct moisture mapping and air quality testing to definitively identify the source of the moisture. This technical report is the key evidence needed to determine legal responsibility and compel the landlord to act. For a definitive assessment and to protect your family's health, I strongly recommend you seek a professional evaluation. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection and get a clear path to resolution. |
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