Who is responsible for black mold in a rental property?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for structural maintenance and repairs falls on the landlord. This includes issues with the building's essential systems, such as ventilation and extraction fans. Since you've identified that the fan has been weak since you moved in, this points to a pre-existing ventilation deficiency, which is a landlord responsibility.

The black mold spreading along the ceiling is a direct consequence of this inadequate ventilation. While daily shower use contributes moisture, a properly functioning extraction system is designed to mitigate this. The recent humid weather in Dubai exacerbates the problem, as high ambient humidity combined with poor air exchange creates the perfect environment for mold proliferation. The coughing in your children is a significant health concern, as Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) is known to produce mycotoxins that can cause respiratory irritation.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue, highlighting the faulty ventilation system as the root cause and the associated health symptoms. For a definitive assessment and to strengthen your case, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and spore concentration levels, providing an official report that documents the health hazard and its cause.

For immediate professional assessment and remediation, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and receive a detailed report for your landlord.