Is landlord responsible for mold from hidden leak in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the details you've provided, this is a significant health and structural issue that requires immediate attention. In the UAE, specifically under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai), the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the maintenance of the property's structure, including the integrity of plumbing and water systems. A hidden water leak falls squarely under their obligation.

The persistent dampness you feel, despite the AC running, is a classic sign of a chronic moisture issue that the AC cannot overcome. The black mold you discovered is a serious bio-contaminant and is very likely the cause of your children's respiratory irritation.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing (email is best for a paper trail), detailing the discovery and including clear photographs. They are obligated to address the source of the leak immediately. However, do not wait for them to act on the mold itself.

Mold of this scale requires professional remediation. Disturbing it without proper containment can aerosolize the spores, drastically increasing airborne levels and exacerbating health issues. The process involves identifying the moisture source, isolating the contaminated area, removing the affected materials under controlled conditions, and performing a thorough hygienization of the space.

For a situation this serious, we strongly recommend a professional indoor environmental inspection to assess the full extent of the contamination and to provide a certified report, which can also be used to ensure your landlord fulfills their legal duties.

Please do not attempt to clean this yourself. For immediate professional guidance and to schedule an inspection, call our experts at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537. You can also email us at hello@saniservice.com. Your family's health is paramount.