Found dangerous black mold in apartment; what should I do?« Back to Previous Page

This level of visible mold growth, especially with associated health symptoms like persistent coughing and sneezing, warrants immediate and serious attention. The Dubai climate, with its high humidity and constant AC use, creates ideal conditions for mold to thrive on cold surfaces and behind furniture, exactly as you've described.

First, document everything. Take clear, time-stamped photos and videos of the mold, the suspected AC leak, and its proximity to where your children sleep and play. This evidence is critical. Under UAE tenancy law, landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and addressing issues that make it uninhabitable, which includes significant mold caused by building leaks.

Formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing (email is best), attaching the evidence and explicitly mentioning the health impact on your children. Request immediate remediation of the leak's source and professional mold inspection and removal. Do not attempt to remove large patches yourself, as improper cleaning can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.

For a case this severe, a professional assessment is essential. They will identify the mold species and the full extent of the contamination, which often spreads inside walls. Reputable companies use lab analysis to confirm the type and verify that remediation was successful, not just visually clean. This scientific report is also powerful documentation for your landlord, proving the severity and the need for a proper fix, not just a superficial clean. Keep all reports for your records. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.