Am I responsible for mold removal bill or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the details you've provided, this situation is highly likely the legal and financial responsibility of your landlord. In the UAE, specifically under Dubai Rental Law, landlords are obligated to provide a habitable property and are responsible for all major maintenance issues that affect the structural integrity and livability of the unit. A persistent dampness issue leading to significant mold growth, especially one that is causing health symptoms like the coughing your children are experiencing, falls squarely under this category.

The damp wall behind the wardrobe is a critical clue. This is often caused by a hidden plumbing leak within the wall or, more commonly in Dubai's climate, a phenomenon called "cold bridging." This occurs where the constant, year-round air conditioning cools the internal wall surface to a point below the dew point, causing moisture from the humid outdoor air to condense inside the structure. This is a building envelope issue, not a tenant-caused problem.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Describe the issue, mention the suspected health impact, and insist on a professional inspection. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize spores and worsen the air quality. The underlying moisture source must be identified and repaired first.

For a case this severe, with visible growth and health symptoms, I strongly recommend a certified professional inspection. We at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the exact mold species and the root cause of the moisture, providing a report you can use with your landlord. If the landlord is unresponsive, this documented report becomes crucial evidence.

For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.