Should I call landlord or treat mold myself in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Contact your landlord first. Dubai tenancy law generally places the responsibility for structural maintenance, including moisture intrusion and mold remediation, on the property owner. Inform them immediately in writing, including photos of the black spots and the damp wall, as this indicates a potential leak or condensation issue they must address.

Do not attempt to treat this yourself. The damp wall suggests an active moisture source, like a hidden pipe leak or penetrating damp from external humidity. Cleaning visible mold without fixing the underlying cause is ineffective and it will return quickly. Furthermore, disturbing it can release a high concentration of spores, potentially worsening your children's coughing.

For a case like this with health symptoms and hidden dampness, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the moisture source and extent of growth. A proper assessment in Dubai’s climate often requires moisture meters and thermal imaging to find condensation points or leaks within walls. The landlord should arrange this, but you can recommend a provider with certified expertise and a microbiology lab to identify the species, as this provides concrete evidence for the required remediation scope.