Is landlord liable for mold causing kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

The liability for mold remediation in a Dubai rental property is a common point of contention, often hinging on the root cause. Under UAE rental law, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, including the building envelope, plumbing, and fixed air conditioning systems. If the black mold in your JLT closet is a result of a pre-existing structural defect, such as a leaking roof, faulty external waterproofing, or a breach in the building's facade that allows moisture ingress, the financial responsibility falls squarely on the landlord.

However, the landlord's argument that it's from your AC unit requires scrutiny. In Dubai's high-humidity climate, condensation is a primary catalyst for mold growth. If the mold is indeed caused by condensation from the AC system, liability depends on the type of unit. For central (chiller) AC systems, the landlord is typically responsible for the maintenance of the central plant and distribution ducts. If poorly insulated or leaking ducts within the building's structure are causing the condensation, this is the landlord's duty to rectify. Conversely, if you have a split or window unit, tenant responsibility for cleaning the unit's filters and ensuring it is not set at a temperature causing excessive condensation is more likely.

Given that your children are experiencing respiratory symptoms, this is a serious indoor air quality issue that requires immediate professional assessment. The black spots are likely Stachybotrys chartarum, a toxigenic mold that thrives on constantly wet, cellulose-rich materials (like drywall). Self-cleaning with bleach is ineffective and can aerosolize spores.

I strongly recommend you engage a certified mold inspection company like Saniservice to conduct a comprehensive assessment. Our experts will identify the precise moisture source and species of mold, providing a definitive report that outlines the cause and required remediation scope. This professional documentation is crucial for formally disputing the landlord's claim and establishing liability. For an immediate consultation and to safeguard your family's health, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.