Is landlord responsible for black mold and health issues?« Back to Previous Page

Based on Dubai Municipality regulations and the standard tenancy contract, the responsibility for maintenance and structural repairs, including those stemming from water leaks or seepage that lead to mold growth, typically falls upon the landlord. The presence of black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) behind a wardrobe, originating from a pre-existing water stain, strongly indicates a building envelope or plumbing issue. This is a matter of habitability and structural integrity, which is the landlord's legal obligation to address.

Given the health symptoms you describe, this is a serious issue. The humid Dubai climate, combined with year-round AC use, creates perfect conditions for mycotoxin-producing molds to flourish when a moisture source is present. Your children's persistent coughing is a significant health red flag often associated with mold spore inhalation.

Your immediate action should be to formally document and report the issue in writing to your landlord or property management company, including photographs of the mold and the suspected water source. Do not attempt to clean significant black mold yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize harmful spores and exacerbate the health risk and property contamination.

For a definitive assessment and to establish liability, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and concentration levels, providing a legally defensible report for your landlord. For remediation, the process requires containment, professional-grade antimicrobials, and HVAC cleaning to ensure spores are not spread throughout the property.

For immediate professional consultation, inspection, and landlord-compliant reporting, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a assessment.