Is black mold removal urgent for landlord to handle?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, this is urgent for your landlord to handle. The damp wall and black mold growth indicate a moisture issue that won't resolve itself and poses a health risk, especially with your children coughing.

Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and ensuring it is habitable. This includes fixing leaks and addressing moisture intrusion that leads to mold. The persistent dampness suggests a potential leak from plumbing within the wall, a faulty external seal, or severe condensation due to poor insulation—all structural issues the landlord must rectify.

For your family's health, professional remediation is strongly advised. The coughing and stale smell are common indicators of poor indoor air quality from mold spores. In Dubai's climate, where we rely on AC, spores can circulate throughout the home. A proper remediation involves isolating the area, removing contaminated materials like drywall, treating the cavity, and most critically, identifying and fixing the source of moisture to prevent immediate regrowth.

Contact your landlord in writing immediately, describing the visible mold and dampness. Request a professional inspection to find the moisture source and a remediation plan. While waiting, avoid disturbing the mold, as this releases more spores. Keep the bedroom door closed and the AC fan running to help filter the air. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference your rights to a habitable property under RERA to encourage action.