Is landlord responsible for mold treatment in JVC?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, your landlord is generally responsible for addressing the underlying cause of the mold, such as a water leak or structural defect, under Dubai rental law. They are obligated to provide a habitable property. However, if the moisture issue is due to tenant behavior (e.g., not using AC to manage humidity, blocking ventilation), the responsibility may shift.

The black spots behind the wardrobe are a classic sign of condensation buildup, which is extremely common in JVC due to our high humidity and the temperature difference between cool AC walls and warm, stagnant air. This trapped moisture allows mold to thrive and release spores, which can absolutely cause the coughing and damp smell you're describing.

For the fastest professional treatment, start with a certified mold inspection that includes moisture mapping and air quality testing. This identifies the exact moisture source and spore concentration, which is crucial evidence for your landlord. Do not disturb the area or attempt to clean it with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and worsen the problem. A professional remediation team will then contain the area, remove contaminated materials like the affected wall section, and use HEPA filtration to clean the air. The final, critical step is fixing the root cause—often improving ventilation or sealing a cold bridge—to prevent immediate return.

Formally notify your landlord in writing with photos and request a fix. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. Given the health symptoms, this is a valid habitability concern.