Do I need to address basement mold myself?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the basement of my rented apartment. When I checked further, I found a small patch of mold growing on the wall near the window. The landlord hasn’t responded to any messages about it yet. Do I have a responsibility to address this myself or should I expect the landlord to handle it?
Posted by Emily Allen
Asked on December 6, 2025 7:13 pm
Absolutely, addressing the mold issue in your basement is crucial and something that needs immediate attention. Here's why:

Firstly, in the UAE, particularly within the emirate of Dubai, there are regulations concerning health and safety which mandate prompt action when dealing with mold growth. According to the Health & Safety Law (Federal Law No. 8 of 2005), property owners or tenants have a responsibility to ensure that their premises remain safe for habitation. Mold not only poses an aesthetic issue but can also lead to serious health concerns, especially for individuals with respiratory issues such as asthma.

Considering your situation, it's highly recommended you take the following steps:

1. Document The Issue: Before taking any action, document the extent of mold growth. Take photos and make notes about its location, size, and appearance. This evidence can be crucial in communicating the urgency to your landlord or future reference.

2. Professional Inspection: Given that Dubai has specific standards for mold remediation (such as those provided by the UAE Environmental Health Authority), it is advisable to get a professional inspection. Companies like Saniservice offer comprehensive assessments which include identifying the type and extent of mold, potential health risks, and recommending appropriate remediation strategies.

3. Communication With The Landlord: While your landlord may not have responded, you should continue to communicate with them about the issue. Provide evidence of the mold presence and suggest a professional inspection. Emphasize that addressing this promptly is in both parties' best interests to prevent any future disputes or health issues.

4. Taking Action: If the landlord still fails to respond, it’s within your rights to address the situation yourself. However, proceed with caution as improper remediation can exacerbate the problem. Ensure you follow safety guidelines such as wearing protective gear (masks, gloves) and ensuring proper ventilation during any cleanup efforts.

5. Preventive Measures: After addressing the current issue, consider implementing preventive measures like sealing gaps around windows or using dehumidifiers to prevent future mold growth.

Remember, while it might be tempting to tackle this yourself given the musty smell and visible patch, engaging with a professional ensures that you handle the situation appropriately according to UAE standards. If you decide to proceed on your own, make sure to follow all safety protocols and document every step for any potential disputes or claims down the line.

In conclusion, taking prompt action is key to ensuring both your health and the condition of your property. For further guidance or if you require assistance, feel free to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for professional support.

Call 800-MOLDS
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 9, 2025 1:56 am