Is landlord responsible for bedroom mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page
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The wall behind our wardrobe in the bedroom has a growing patch of black, fuzzy mold, and it’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a few weeks ago. We've lived in this Jumeirah apartment for over a year with no issues, but now my husband’s allergies are acting up constantly. Is this something I need to handle myself, or is the landlord responsible for the inspection and remediation?
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Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for remedying structural defects and maintaining the property’s core condition. A recurring mold issue stemming from a hidden water leak, faulty insulation, or poor building envelope is typically considered their responsibility, especially since the problem began without a clear cause like tenant-induced water damage.
Given the location behind a fixed wardrobe—a common spot for concealed pipework or external wall condensation—the source is likely structural. The recent humidity spike has simply exacerbated an existing problem. Your first step is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and its impact on your husband's health. They are obligated to arrange a proper inspection to diagnose the moisture source. In Dubai’s climate, with high humidity and constant AC use, condensation within walls is a frequent culprit. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing visible black mold can aerosolize spores and worsen allergy symptoms. A professional assessment is needed to identify the mold species and, more importantly, locate and fix the moisture intrusion. Without fixing the water source, the mold will return. The remediation process itself may be the landlord's duty, but you can request documentation from the inspection to confirm the cause. |
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