Should I address basement mold or inform landlord?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the basement corner where my daughter’s room is. The carpet looks slightly damp, and there are some greenish spots on the wall. Is it my responsibility to address this or should I inform the landlord?
Posted by Salma Al-Sayed
Asked on December 12, 2025 2:24 am
Based on the scenario described, it sounds like you're dealing with potential mold growth in your daughter’s room. Mold can be a serious issue, especially after rainfall which has been known to cause dampness and subsequent mold proliferation. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, environmental regulations emphasize the importance of addressing such issues promptly for health reasons.

Firstly, I would strongly recommend conducting a professional inspection by contacting Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, or through their email hello@saniservice.com. A certified mold inspector will provide you with an accurate assessment of the situation, determine if there is indeed active mold growth, and advise on the appropriate remediation steps.

From a technical standpoint, mold can produce allergens and irritants that might cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, or breathing difficulties, especially for children. The greenish spots you mentioned could be indicative of mold colonies, but it’s crucial to have this confirmed by an expert.

Regarding the damp carpet and slightly wet walls, these are prime conditions for mold growth. In Dubai, which experiences high humidity levels during certain times of the year, such environments can quickly lead to mold if not properly managed. Given that you noticed a musty smell, it's highly likely that moisture is present—a key ingredient for mold propagation.

In terms of your responsibility as a tenant, UAE laws generally require landlords to maintain properties in good condition, which includes ensuring there is no mold growth due to poor maintenance practices. However, the practicality may vary based on whether the cause of the dampness and subsequent mold was due to structural issues or from external factors like heavy rainfall.

In Dubai, it's common for tenants to inform their landlords about such issues through formal channels such as emails or written notifications. This ensures that your concerns are documented and can be addressed in a timely manner. If after informing the landlord they do not take appropriate action within a reasonable period (usually a few days), you might consider escalating the matter through local tenant associations or even legal advice.

Remember, while addressing the issue yourself could be an option if minor, the potential health risks associated with mold make professional intervention highly advisable. Saniservice can offer effective remediation services that will not only address the current problem but also prevent future occurrences of mold growth in your home.

Taking these steps ensures both the immediate safety and long-term health of you and your family, especially considering the climate conditions prevalent in Dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 14, 2025 4:23 pm