Mold behind wardrobe causing coughs: landlord or company first?« Back to Previous Page

Contact your landlord first. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and addressing issues like dampness and water leaks that cause mold. Provide clear photos of the damp wall and the mold growth. This dampness is likely due to a hidden pipe leak or thermal bridging in the exterior wall, common in our climate where constant AC use creates cold surfaces that attract condensation.

While you wait for their response, keep the area ventilated and avoid disturbing the mold to prevent spores from spreading. Do not attempt to clean it with bleach, as this only removes the surface color and can aggravate the coughs.

For a proper inspection, you need a company that uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the water source, not just a visual check. A microbiology lab test can identify the specific mold type, which is crucial information if your children's symptoms persist. Any remediation must include fixing the underlying moisture problem; simply wiping the visible mold away is a temporary fix.

Saniservice is one of the few providers in Dubai with an in-house microbiology lab to provide this type of diagnostic testing and science-driven remediation plan. Your landlord may have a preferred contractor, but you can recommend a company that offers verifiable, data-driven results to ensure the job is done completely.