Is my Dubai landlord responsible for black mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found behind our wardrobe in the master bedroom. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, but the wall feels damp to the touch. I'm worried it's been there a while and is affecting our health. Is my landlord in Dubai legally required to handle this and pay for the remediation, or is it considered our fault for not ventilating the room properly?
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Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, your landlord is legally obligated to provide a habitable property and maintain the structural elements of the building. The damp wall behind the wardrobe indicates a potential structural or building envelope issue, such as a leaking pipe, rising damp, or a breach in the external waterproofing. This falls squarely under the landlord's responsibility, not tenant-caused negligence like inadequate ventilation.
However, the persistent high humidity in Dubai, combined with year-round air conditioning, can create significant condensation issues, which can sometimes be a point of contention. The presence of black mold (likely Stachybotrys chartarum) and the associated health symptoms in your children elevate this to a serious health and safety issue that demands immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize harmful mycotoxins, significantly increasing your family's exposure. A professional inspection is critical to identify the precise moisture source, assess the extent of contamination, and formulate a remediation plan that includes containment, air scrubbing, and safe removal. We strongly recommend you contact your landlord in writing, citing the Civil Code, and request immediate remediation. For a definitive assessment and to protect your family's health, schedule a professional inspection with Saniservice. Our certified experts can provide a detailed report that can be used to formally request action from your landlord. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an urgent consultation. |
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