Is landlord responsible for black mold removal in rental?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold growing in the corner of our master bedroom closet in our JVC apartment. It started spreading after that really humid week we had last month, and now it's getting worse. Who is responsible for getting this professionally treated and paying for it, me as the tenant or the landlord?
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In Dubai's rental properties, particularly in high-humidity areas like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), the responsibility for mold remediation is a common point of contention. The persistent humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning create ideal conditions for mold growth, especially when condensation forms on cold surfaces.
Under UAE tenancy law, the landlord is fundamentally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and habitability of the property. This includes addressing issues inherent to the building itself, such as water infiltration from leaks in the external walls, roof, or plumbing systems. If the mold in your closet originated from a structural defect or a hidden pipe leak, the remediation cost falls squarely on the landlord. However, the tenant is responsible for issues arising from their own negligence or lifestyle. This includes mold caused by a failure to use the provided AC system adequately, which is critical for controlling humidity, or by activities that generate excessive moisture without proper ventilation. Given that the mold started after a period of high humidity and is now affecting your children's health, a professional inspection is critical to determine the root cause. DIY removal is not advised for black mold, especially with health symptoms present, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen contamination. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the source definitively. This evidence-based report is essential for determining liability. We recommend you formally notify your landlord of the issue and its health impacts immediately, and for a professional resolution, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
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