Is landlord responsible for black mold removal?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found growing behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. It's a huge patch, probably from the AC unit's condensation leak the landlord said he fixed last winter. We've been in this Marina apartment for over three years and never had an issue before. Is the landlord legally required to handle the removal and pay for the cleanup, or is this on me?
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Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract provisions, the landlord is generally responsible for addressing and financing black mold removal, especially when the root cause is a structural or maintenance-related issue like an AC condensation leak. This falls under their legal obligation to provide a habitable property free from inherent defects that affect health and safety. The leak you mentioned, even if "fixed," created a persistent moisture issue, which is the landlord's responsibility to rectify completely, including the resulting microbial growth.
Given the significant patch you've described and the associated health symptoms in your children, this is a serious case. The humid Dubai climate and year-round AC use create a perfect environment for mold, particularly Stachybotrys (black mold), which can produce mycotoxins and exacerbate respiratory issues like coughing. A professional inspection is critical. We would perform a thorough assessment to identify the exact species, the extent of contamination (including inside the wall cavity), and the precise moisture source to ensure the remediation plan is effective and prevents recurrence. Do not attempt to remove this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and significantly worsen indoor air quality. We strongly advise you to contact your landlord immediately, cite your rights under the tenancy law, and recommend a professional remediation company. For immediate assistance with inspection and certified remediation, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice is equipped with the technical expertise and EPA-approved protocols to safely resolve this issue and provide a guaranteed hygienization certificate for your family's safety. |
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