Who treats mold exposure and is landlord responsible?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month, and I've started getting these awful headaches that just won't go away. I finally pulled our sofa away from the wall in our Khalifa City villa and found a huge patch of black mold spreading behind it, probably from a slow leak we never noticed. What kind of doctor should we see to get checked out for mold exposure, and is this something our landlord is legally required to fix immediately?
Posted by Aisha El-Masri
Asked on May 7, 2026 7:43 pm
Start with your family doctor or a general practitioner. They can assess symptoms and refer you to a specialist, typically an allergist or pulmonologist, who can order tests for mold allergies or sensitivities. Documenting the visible mold with photos and a dated doctor's visit is crucial for your records.

Under UAE tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and addressing issues that make it uninhabitable. A significant mold infestation caused by a hidden leak is considered a major defect that the landlord must rectify. You should notify them in writing immediately, include the photos and mention the health symptoms, and request urgent remediation.

Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, hidden condensation leaks are common. This situation requires professional remediation, not a simple wipe-down, as the hidden moisture source must be found and fixed. A proper inspection can identify the full extent and recommend a science-backed protocol to resolve it.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 10, 2026 8:31 am