Kids sick from mold in Dubai apartment - call landlord first?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the symptoms you've described and the visible black, fuzzy growth, there is a very high probability that the mold is the cause of your children's persistent coughing. In the humid Dubai climate, air conditioning units are a primary source of moisture due to condensation, and when a drain line is blocked or leaking, it creates a perfect environment for toxic black mold (often Stachybotrys chartarum) to proliferate. This type of mold releases mycotoxins and spores that are particularly harmful to children, causing respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and chronic coughing.

Your first call should absolutely be to your landlord or property management company. Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues that affect habitability, which includes water leaks and resultant mold infestations originating from built-in fixtures like AC units. Document the issue thoroughly with photographs and a written notice to your landlord, stating the health impact on your family. This creates a formal record of your complaint.

However, do not allow the landlord to send a general handyman or cleaning crew. Mold remediation requires specialized techniques to safely contain, remove, and prevent recurrence. Improper cleaning will disturb the spores, aerosolizing them and spreading the contamination throughout your apartment, potentially making the health situation worse.

After notifying the landlord, you must contact a professional mold inspection and remediation company like Saniservice. Our certified experts use industry-standard protocols, including air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and spore count, followed by comprehensive containment, HEPA filtration, and antimicrobial treatment to ensure the mold is eradicated at its source. We also identify and rectify the moisture problem to prevent future growth. For immediate assistance and to safeguard your family's health, I strongly advise you to call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a consultation and emergency inspection.