Are landlord responsibilities including mold issues?« Back to Previous Page
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After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in the basement where I keep my extra furniture. My children have also been complaining of persistent coughs and watery eyes whenever they play down there. The landlord has been pretty busy with other properties and hasn't checked on it much. Is it reasonable to assume the landlord is responsible for addressing mold issues, or should I be looking into hiring a professional myself?
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In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, landlord responsibilities do extend to addressing mold issues within residential properties. According to the real estate laws and regulations, landlords are typically responsible for maintaining the property in a safe condition that ensures the health of their tenants. This includes promptly dealing with any water damage or moisture-related concerns that could lead to mold growth.
In your specific case, it sounds like you've experienced heavy rains followed by persistent musty odors and symptoms such as coughing and watery eyes from your children. These are clear signs of potential mold presence which can indeed impact respiratory health—especially for children. It is reasonable to assume that the landlord should address these issues, but given the nature of your concerns, it would be prudent to take proactive steps. First, communicate with the landlord about your observations and request a professional inspection. This will help establish if there truly are mold issues and provide a basis for any necessary remediation. In Dubai, you might consider hiring a certified environmental inspector who can perform a thorough assessment of the property’s air quality, moisture levels, and overall condition related to mold. The inspection report could serve as evidence should disputes arise with your landlord regarding their responsibilities under local laws. Local regulations such as the Free Zone Real Estate Law (Law No. 7 of 2004) outline that landlords are responsible for ensuring premises are in a fit state to be let and must take reasonable steps to keep them so during the tenancy period. While it’s ideal for the landlord to address these issues, if no action is taken or if they delay, you can seek legal advice on your rights. Moreover, given the climate in Dubai, which can lead to high humidity levels, especially after heavy rains, mold growth could be more likely. It's important not to ignore symptoms like coughing and watery eyes, as these can indicate a need for immediate attention. For professional help, you might want to reach out to companies such as Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. They offer services that could address the mold issue and provide peace of mind knowing your property is in a safe condition. Remember, while it’s crucial for landlords to maintain properties, tenants also have responsibilities such as reporting issues promptly and cooperating with inspections. By taking these steps, you can ensure both parties work towards resolving any mold-related concerns effectively. |
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