Is landlord responsible for mold-related health issues?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai law (Law No. 26 of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes fixing issues like water leaks or seepage that lead to dampness and mold. Since the wall itself is damp, this indicates a potential building envelope or plumbing issue, making it the landlord's obligation to repair.

For your children's immediate health, persistent coughing is a common reaction to mold exposure, particularly the dampness and spores. The constant AC use here can circulate these spores throughout the home. You should see a doctor to document the symptoms, as this creates a medical record linking the health issue to the property condition.

Formally notify your landlord in writing about the damp wall and mold, requesting immediate repairs. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center (RDC). While the landlord must fix the source, the cost of treating your children's medical issues typically falls to the tenant. However, if you can prove the landlord was negligent in addressing a known issue that directly caused the health problem, you may have a claim for compensation through the RDC.

For a case this serious with visible dampness, a professional inspection is critical to identify the moisture source and extent of hidden mold growth, especially behind walls. This provides documented evidence of the problem's severity, which is essential for any dispute with the landlord. In Dubai's climate, simply cleaning the visible mold is insufficient; the underlying humidity or leak must be resolved to prevent recurrence.