Is JBR apartment mold causing our illness and who's responsible?« Back to Previous Page

The black mold under your carpet is highly likely the cause of your persistent headaches and dry cough. These are common symptoms of mold exposure, especially in an enclosed space like a bedroom. The AC leak has created a constant moisture source, which in Dubai's humidity allows mold to thrive rapidly.

For responsibility, your building management is typically accountable for the structural integrity of the AC system and any leaks originating from it. The first step is to formally notify them in writing, detailing the leak and the discovered mold. Include photos as evidence. Under Dubai regulations, they are generally responsible for fixing the leak at its source.

However, the remediation of the affected materials inside your apartment—like the carpet and underlying padding—often falls to the tenant. This mold growth is a serious indoor health issue that requires professional remediation, not a simple DIY clean-up. Disturbing it without proper containment can aerosolize spores throughout your home.

You need a two-part solution: the building must repair the AC leak permanently, and you must arrange for certified mold remediation to safely remove the contaminated materials. I strongly recommend a professional inspection to assess the full extent of the hidden damage and to obtain a lab report documenting the mold type, which can be used in communications with management. Do not delay, as this is a significant health hazard.