Landlord responsible for mold from building leak?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I finally checked behind the wardrobe in our bedroom, finding a huge patch of black mold on the wall. It's definitely been there a while, but our building in Jumeirah Village Circle had some major leaking issues during the last heavy rains. Is it my responsibility to clean this up and fix the wall, or is my landlord legally required to handle it since it seems to be a structural water leak?
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Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the responsibility for structural repairs and rectifying issues stemming from the building's core structure falls squarely on the landlord. Given that you have traced the mold growth to a major leaking issue from the recent heavy rains, this is highly likely a structural defect. Your landlord is legally obligated to address the root cause of the water intrusion and the resultant damage, which includes the mold remediation and repairing the wall.
However, it is critical that you notify your landlord in writing immediately. Document the issue thoroughly with clear photographs and videos, linking the mold directly to the leak. Do not attempt to clean the "huge patch of black mold" yourself. Disturbing it without proper containment and PPE can aerosolize the spores, significantly worsening the indoor air quality and potentially exacerbating your children's respiratory symptoms. The persistent humidity and constant use of AC in Dubai creates a perfect environment for mold to thrive, especially when a moisture source like a leak is present. This situation requires professional assessment and remediation. A certified mold inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, which is vital for health concerns and can provide a formal report to present to your landlord. For a comprehensive inspection and to ensure the remediation is handled safely and effectively, I strongly recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. We can provide the necessary documentation for your landlord and execute the proper remediation protocol. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
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