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

Based on the symptoms you've described and the visible mold growth, this is a serious health and safety issue that requires immediate attention. The persistent coughing in your children is a classic symptom of exposure to mold spores, which can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory distress, particularly in vulnerable individuals.

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural defects that lead to dampness and the resulting mold growth. The damp wall you've identified points to a potential leak or, more commonly in our climate, severe condensation due to inadequate insulation or faulty AC systems. The landlord is legally obligated to rectify the root cause of the moisture problem and undertake the subsequent mold remediation to ensure the property is safe. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and requesting immediate action.

However, do not attempt to clean significant black mold growth yourself. Disturbing it will aerosolize the spores, drastically increasing the airborne concentration and exacerbating your family's health issues. The remediation process requires professional containment, specialized air filtration (HEPA scrubbing), and antimicrobial treatment to ensure it is eliminated safely and effectively.

Given the health symptoms and the extent of the growth, we strongly recommend a professional indoor environmental inspection. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify all contaminated areas, pinpoint the exact moisture source, and provide a detailed protocol for remediation that you can present to your landlord. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Your family's health is paramount.