Should I call my landlord or a mold inspector?« Back to Previous Page

Call your landlord first. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential systems, including the AC and any resulting water damage. This leak is a maintenance issue they must address.

For a proper mold inspection, a professional should assess the visible growth and the dampness inside the wall. This typically involves a visual assessment, moisture mapping with a meter to find the full extent of the damp area, and air or surface sampling. The samples are then cultured in a lab to identify the mold species, which determines the appropriate remediation strategy. Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, hidden condensation and mold growth inside walls and units are common.

Inform your landlord in writing, describing the leak and the emerging black speckles, and request immediate action. They will often send their own maintenance team. If they are unresponsive or the cleanup seems insufficient, you can then hire an independent inspector. A credible inspector will provide a detailed report with lab results, which you can use to formally require your landlord to conduct proper remediation.