Is my landlord responsible for black mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the details you've provided, this is a serious situation that requires immediate attention for the health of your family and the integrity of the property. The persistent coughing in children is a significant red flag often associated with prolonged exposure to mold spores, particularly from a damp, hidden source like behind the wardrobe.

In the UAE, specifically under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (as amended), the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the property in a condition that is habitable and fit for the purpose of tenancy. This includes the structural integrity of the building. A damp wall causing mold growth is almost always indicative of a structural or maintenance-related moisture issue, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, faulty external waterproofing, or a crack in the building envelope. These are not considered normal wear and tear and fall squarely under the landlord's obligation to repair. The cost to remediate the root cause of the moisture and the resulting mold damage should be borne by the landlord.

However, you must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Document the issue with clear photographs and videos. It is also critical to understand that simply wiping the visible mold is insufficient and hazardous. Disturbing it releases a high concentration of spores. A professional inspection is mandatory to identify the exact moisture source and the full extent of the contamination, which is often far greater than what is visible.

Given the health symptoms and the hidden dampness, I strongly recommend you contact a professional environmental company like Saniservice. Our certified experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion and conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and spore count. This scientific evidence is crucial for dealing with your landlord and ensuring the problem is solved correctly. We provide a detailed report that can be shared with the property owner. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.