Should I test for mold or call my landlord first?« Back to Previous Page

Document the issue first. Take clear photos of the mold, the damp wall, and any cold spots. Note the date. This is your evidence. In Dubai, tenancy law (EJARI) typically holds landlords responsible for resolving structural issues causing dampness, like leaking pipes or insufficient insulation, which are common culprits here.

Contact your landlord or property manager immediately with this documentation. They are legally obligated to address the source of the moisture. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can disperse harmful spores and worsen your children's symptoms.

For a case like this with health symptoms and visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the moisture source and mold type. The most reliable companies are those certified by the Dubai Municipality and who provide detailed lab reports from an accredited microbiology lab, not just a visual assessment. They should diagnose the cause—often condensation from AC units on poorly insulated exterior walls—before any remediation.

A proper remediation plan will isolate the area, remove contaminated materials safely, and most critically, fix the underlying dampness. Your landlord should coordinate and cover the cost for this, as it pertains to the property's condition.