Is damp wall with black mold a landlord fix?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the symptoms you've described—persistent coughing in children coupled with visible black spots and a damp wall—this presents a serious indoor air quality and potential health hazard that requires immediate professional attention.

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for structural repairs and issues arising from building defects typically falls on the landlord, as per the rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007). A damp wall causing mold growth is generally considered a structural maintenance issue that the property owner is obligated to address. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, including photographs of the affected area.

However, given the acute health symptoms, waiting for the landlord's often slow response is not advisable. The black spots are likely Stachybotrys chartarum (toxic black mold), which can produce mycotoxins. The constant AC use, while intended to reduce humidity, can exacerbate the problem if the unit is not properly maintained or if the condensate drain line is blocked, creating a perpetual moisture source.

We strongly recommend you engage a specialist immediately. A certified mold inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels, which is crucial for understanding the health risk and formulating a proper remediation protocol. DIY cleaning is ineffective and can aerosolize spores, worsening the contamination.

For urgent professional inspection and remediation that complies with Dubai Municipality standards, contact Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Their experts can assess the situation, provide a formal report for your landlord, and execute the necessary containment, removal, and hygienization to make the bedroom safe again.