Is landlord responsible for black mold and my kid's cough?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold behind a wardrobe on an exterior wall, combined with constant AC use and child respiratory issues, strongly points to a condensation and humidity problem common in Dubai. The wall is likely a "cold bridge," where warm, humid air condenses, creating a perfect environment for mold.

Regarding responsibility, your tenancy contract is the primary guide. Generally, structural issues like leaks in external walls or faulty AC units causing condensation are the landlord's responsibility to rectify. However, if the mold resulted from tenant actions (e.g., blocking ventilation, not using the AC), the tenant may be liable. Your case—mold on an exterior wall—typically falls to the landlord.

For your children's health, a professional inspection is urgent. A proper assessment involves more than a visual check; it includes moisture mapping to find the water source and air/surface sampling to identify the mold species. This data is critical, as it confirms the extent and type of contamination, guiding the necessary remediation steps.

Document everything with photos and formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing. They are generally obligated to address health hazards that make the property uninhabitable. If they are unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper cleaning can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem. The remediation must address the moisture source first, not just the visible mold.