Is my landlord responsible for hidden black mold?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is likely responsible for the remediation of that hidden mold, as it's a building integrity and habitability issue. In Dubai, landlords are generally obligated to provide a property that is fit for living, which includes addressing issues like water intrusion and mold that stem from the building's structure or installed systems like AC.

Given the location near the AC unit, the cause is almost certainly chronic condensation or a drain line leak, both common in our high-humidity climate where AC runs year-round. The landlord's "regular service" claim may refer to basic filter changes, not a deep inspection of the unit's condensate management system or the surrounding walls. This is a structural moisture problem, not a maintenance issue you caused.

For your children's health, persistent coughing is a very common reaction to prolonged mold spore exposure. You should consult a pediatrician and show them photos of the mold. Do not attempt to clean a large patch yourself, as disturbing it will aerosolize a high concentration of spores. A professional inspection is critical to identify the exact moisture source and extent of growth, which is often far greater than what's visible.

Document everything with dated photos and communicate with the landlord in writing (email is best). If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will typically require a technical report from an independent inspector to substantiate your claim, which will detail the cause and necessary remediation steps. Your priority is to have a certified professional safely remove the mold and fix the underlying moisture issue to protect your family's health.