Is mold inspection the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold inspection and remediation is generally governed by the rental contract and Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Typically, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking central AC systems, or structural dampness that leads to mold growth. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the interior and reporting any issues promptly.

Given your description—black mold discovery, persistent coughing, and a damp feeling despite AC use—this is a serious health and habitability concern. The constant AC use in Dubai's humid climate can ironically contribute to the problem if the unit is not properly maintained or if the drainage system is faulty, leading to excess condensation and creating the damp conditions mold thrives in. A professional inspection is crucial to identify the exact species (some black molds are highly toxigenic) and, more importantly, the underlying moisture source.

You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue immediately. They are obligated to address the root cause. For your family's health, I strongly recommend you arrange for a professional inspection. A certified inspector, like those at Saniservice, will conduct a comprehensive assessment including moisture mapping, thermal imaging, and air quality testing to pinpoint the moisture intrusion and contamination level. This provides an objective, scientific report you can present to the landlord, substantiating your claim and outlining the necessary remedial actions.

Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen the contamination. For immediate expert consultation and to schedule a professional inspection, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.