Should I notify my landlord about damp black mold?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, you should notify your landlord immediately. In Dubai, black mold on a wall that feels damp indicates a moisture intrusion, which is a structural issue the property owner is responsible for fixing under tenancy law. Cleaning it yourself is not advisable, as the visible spots are just the surface; the main problem is the hidden moisture source within the wall.

The dampness is likely due to a leaking pipe in the wall, a crack in the building envelope, or severe condensation from the AC unit—all common issues in our climate. The landlord needs to arrange for a professional to locate and repair the source of the water. Merely wiping the surface will cause it to return quickly and continue to pose a health risk, particularly with the symptoms you've described.

For your family's health, it's important to manage exposure until it's resolved. Keep the bedroom well-ventilated and consider using a dehumidifier. Avoid disturbing the area, as this can release more spores into the air. A proper remediation involves not just fixing the leak but also safely removing the affected materials and verifying the space is dry and clean through post-remediation testing. This is the only way to ensure it is fully resolved.