Is landlord responsible for mold affecting my toddler's health?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the details you've provided, your situation is a serious health and property concern that is unfortunately common in Dubai's climate. The persistent humidity, especially during summer months, combined with year-round air conditioning, creates significant condensation issues. This is particularly prevalent on exterior walls and within enclosed spaces like wardrobes, which can become prime locations for mold growth. The black speckled mold you describe is a significant indicator of a moisture problem within the wall cavity or from condensation.

From a health perspective, your toddler's persistent cough that worsens at night is a classic symptom of mold exposure. Children are particularly vulnerable to mycotoxins and allergens released by mold colonies, which can lead to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and aggravated asthma. This is not something to dismiss and requires immediate professional attention to identify the specific species and spore count in your indoor air.

Regarding landlord responsibility in the UAE, the law generally places the obligation on the property owner to maintain the structural integrity and habitability of the premises. Since the mold is growing on an exterior wall, it strongly suggests an underlying issue like inadequate insulation, a hidden water leak, or faulty waterproofing—all of which are the landlord's responsibility to rectify. As the tenant, you are typically responsible for reporting the issue in a timely manner and for maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent condensation, but the root cause and remediation of structural moisture problems fall to the owner.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and its impact on your child's health. We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize spores and worsen the air quality. A certified mold inspection is critical to document the extent of the contamination, identify the moisture source, and provide a professional remediation protocol that you can present to the landlord.

For a comprehensive assessment and to ensure your family's safety, please contact our specialists. We can provide the necessary testing and documentation to support your case with the landlord. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.