Is Dubai landlord responsible for mold in villa?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing constantly for the past month, and we can't figure out why. I just pulled out the sofa in our living room to find a lost toy and discovered a huge patch of black mould growing on the wall behind it. We've lived in this Jumeirah villa for 2 years and just noticed it. Could this be the cause of their illness, and what are the Dubai Municipality's specific rules for landlords about fixing this kind of dampness and mould?
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Based on the Dubai Municipality's regulations and Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai (as amended), the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the villa. This includes addressing the root causes of mould, such as water leakage, rising damp, or seepage from external sources like a faulty AC unit or a cracked internal pipe.
The discovery of a "huge patch of black mould" behind your sofa, likely caused by a hidden moisture source, falls squarely under the landlord's obligation to provide a habitable and safe property. The persistent coughing in your children is a significant health concern, as exposure to mould spores, particularly toxic black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum), is a known trigger for respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and chronic coughing. Your immediate steps should be: 1. Document the mould with clear photographs and videos, noting its location and any visible signs of moisture. 2. Formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, citing the issue and referencing their responsibility under Dubai tenancy law to rectify structural defects. 3. While waiting for their response, avoid disturbing the mould, as this can release a massive amount of spores into the air. For a situation of this severity, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. We need to identify the exact moisture source, assess the extent of contamination (which is often far greater than what's visible), and provide a certified remediation report that can be used to ensure the landlord completes the repairs properly. DIY cleaning is not advised for large infestations. Our team can conduct a comprehensive assessment and provide the necessary documentation. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule an inspection. Your family's health is the priority. |
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