Is landlord responsible for mold and child's health issues?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold behind our bedroom wardrobe, probably from a slow AC leak. My toddler has been having a runny nose and a cough that won't go away for the last month, and I'm starting to worry it's connected. Is the landlord legally responsible for the mold remediation and any associated health checks, or is this on me as the tenant?
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Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes fixing leaks in the building's structure or essential systems like AC units that cause mold. Since this appears to be from an AC leak, the remediation of the mold itself is likely the landlord's responsibility.
For health issues, establishing a direct legal link between the mold and your toddler's illness is complex and requires medical and environmental evidence. You should first notify the landlord in writing about the leak and the mold, as they are obligated to address the source of the moisture. Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use create perfect conditions for mold, especially from untreated condensation leaks. Document everything: take clear photos of the mold and the suspected leak, and keep a record of all communications with the landlord. For your child's health, consult a pediatrician and mention the mold exposure. To confirm the mold type and its potential impact, a professional indoor environmental assessment with lab analysis of samples can provide concrete evidence linking the environment to the health symptoms, which would be crucial for any further action. |
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