Should landlord handle black mold causing cough in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the landlord is legally responsible for investigating and remediating this. Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), landlords must maintain the property to ensure it is habitable, which includes addressing structural defects leading to moisture intrusion and mold growth.

Your situation is classic for Dubai. The persistent high humidity, especially in recent months, condenses on cooler surfaces like exterior walls behind large furniture. This trapped moisture creates an ideal environment for mold, which can indeed cause respiratory irritation and coughing, particularly in children. The fact it was hidden for two years suggests a significant, ongoing moisture issue.

You should first formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, including photos of the mold and a description of the health symptoms. They are obligated to send a professional to diagnose the source of the moisture—this is the critical step. Simply cleaning the visible spots without fixing the underlying water issue (like a leak or insufficient insulation) will result in the mold returning.

For proper resolution, the landlord should hire a certified mold remediation company. Avoid general handymen or cleaners who may just bleach the surface, spreading spores without addressing the root cause. A proper contractor will conduct an assessment, contain the area, remove contaminated materials like drywall or insulation, use HEPA filtration, and verify clearance with post-remediation testing. Companies with their own microbiology labs can provide the most definitive identification and verification that the environment is safe.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. Keep all communication documented.