Is my landlord required to fix toxic mold?« Back to Previous Page

The presence of mold in a rental property is a landlord's responsibility to fix, as it relates to the habitability and structural integrity of the property. Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, landlords are obligated to conduct major maintenance and repairs that are not due to the tenant's misuse. Since the mold behind your wardrobe is likely due to a pre-existing humidity or water leakage issue within the building's structure, this falls under their purview.

The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mold. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the moisture source—this is critical, as simply cleaning the visible patch is ineffective if the underlying cause isn't addressed. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and constant AC use, common sources are condensation from poorly insulated external walls, hidden plumbing leaks, or compromised damp-proof courses.

Given your children's persistent coughing, this is a serious case requiring professional assessment. DIY cleaning is not advised for a recurring issue of this nature, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem. A proper remediation involves containment, HEPA filtration, and removing the affected materials after the moisture source is fixed.

While the law is on your side, the process can be slow. For immediate action, you can request an assessment from an indoor health company that uses a microbiology lab to identify the mold species and the extent of the issue; this documented evidence is powerful in expediting landlord cooperation. In parallel, improve ventilation in the room and keep the AC running to lower indoor humidity levels.