Is landlord responsible for toddler's cough from apartment mold?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is generally responsible for structural repairs and issues stemming from the building's construction, which includes persistent dampness leading to mold growth. This is particularly relevant in your case, as the damp wall behind the wardrobe suggests a potential leak or condensation issue within the building envelope, not a problem caused by tenant activities.

For your health concerns, establishing a direct legal link between the mold and your toddler's cough is complex and requires medical and environmental verification. Persistent coughs in children can have many causes, but prolonged exposure to certain mold types is a known respiratory irritant. The recent Deira humidity season creates ideal conditions for such growth, especially in poorly ventilated areas behind furniture.

Your immediate step is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing, with photos of the mold and the damp wall. Under typical Dubai rental regulations (RERA), they are obligated to address the source of the moisture intrusion. Do not attempt to remove large patches yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores. A professional inspection can identify the mold species and the moisture source, which provides the evidence needed for remediation requests.

While you await a response, improve ventilation in the room, move the toddler to a different bedroom if possible, and use a dehumidifier. For the cough, a pediatrician's consultation is essential to address the immediate health symptoms. The combination of medical advice and a professional mold assessment report will give you the strongest footing for any discussions with the landlord about responsibility for both the repair and associated health concerns.