Is mold in my Dubai apartment causing my illness?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold growth following a leak is a significant concern and your symptoms are consistent with common reactions to mold exposure. The persistent humidity in Dubai, combined with residual moisture trapped after a repair, creates an ideal environment for mold to flourish inside walls or ceiling cavities.

In many cases, what appears as "black mold" is indeed the species Stachybotrys, which can produce irritants and allergens. The scratchy throat and chronic congestion you describe are classic inflammatory responses to these airborne particles, especially when the AC system may be circulating spores from the affected area throughout your apartment.

Responsibility for remediation typically falls on the building management, as the leak originated from a common area or building envelope. Under Dubai's rental regulations (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes addressing health hazards like mold resulting from structural issues. You should formally notify the building management or landlord in writing, with photos, and request immediate, professional remediation. Do not attempt to remove a large patch yourself, as improper cleaning can aerosolize a high concentration of spores.

A professional inspection is crucial. They can use moisture meters and thermal imaging to locate all hidden dampness and take air or surface samples for lab analysis to confirm the mold type. This documented evidence is often necessary to compel the building management to act and ensures the remediation addresses the root cause, not just the visible growth.