Is landlord responsible for bathroom mold causing kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the mold that's been creeping up the corner of our master bathroom ceiling in our Jumeirah Village rental. It's been getting worse since the weather got more humid a couple of months ago. I've tried wiping it down with bleach, but it just comes back darker. Is this something I should fix myself or is my landlord responsible for treating the root cause?
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The landlord is typically responsible for fixing the root cause of bathroom mold, especially in a rental property. Under Dubai rental law, landlords must maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes addressing structural issues leading to persistent dampness. Your recurring ceiling mold points to a chronic moisture problem, not just surface condensation.
Bleach only removes surface discoloration and can actually feed the root structure inside the material. The rapid, darker return confirms an active colony with a moisture source. In Dubai's humidity, this is often due to a leaking AC condensation drain line in the ceiling void, poor bathroom ventilation, or inadequate insulation causing constant condensation. For your children's cough, consistent mold exposure is a known irritant that can worsen respiratory symptoms. Document the mold's growth with dated photos and all communications with your landlord. Request in writing that they investigate and repair the source of the moisture. Given the health concern and the mold's recurrence, a professional inspection is advised to identify the exact moisture source and extent. A certified mold assessor can provide a documented report, which is powerful evidence for your landlord. If the landlord refuses to act, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For immediate relief, ensure the bathroom's exhaust fan is used during and after showers and that the AC is set to a temperature that reduces condensation. |
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