Should landlord handle mold after rain?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, specifically within the region of Dubai, mold growth following heavy rain can indeed pose significant health and structural concerns. The scenario you described where a musty smell and visible mold growth were noted in your bedroom closet is not something that should be ignored.

According to the UAE's Federal Law No. 12 of 2007 concerning Public Health and Safety, it's essential for property owners or landlords to ensure their premises are free from health hazards, which include mold infestations. However, the responsibility for addressing such issues can sometimes become ambiguous, especially in a tenant-landlord relationship.

Given that you have observed mold growth after heavy rain, it would be prudent to take several steps:

Firstly, you should contact your landlord immediately to inform them of the situation. It's crucial to document this interaction through emails or text messages for future reference. If they do not respond promptly, consider escalating the matter by involving a local real estate agent who can act as an intermediary.

Secondly, professional mold inspection and remediation services are highly recommended due to their expertise in handling such situations. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer comprehensive mold testing and remediation services that comply with UAE standards. Their service number is 800-MOLDS or you could email them at hello@saniservice.com.

When hiring a professional for inspection:
• Ensure the company is accredited by relevant bodies such as ADAFS (Abu Dhabi Authority for Food Safety)
• Request a detailed report that outlines all identified mold species and their potential health impacts
• Ask about the methodology used in sampling and testing, ensuring it aligns with industry standards

Lastly, if the mold infestation is extensive or poses significant risks to your health, you may need to consider taking legal action. The UAE's Civil Transactions Law can be invoked to address such issues, but consulting a lawyer specializing in real estate disputes would provide tailored advice.

In conclusion, while it might seem like a landlord should handle mold after rain, the practical and safety considerations dictate that proactive measures are necessary. Contacting professionals for an inspection and addressing the issue promptly will help ensure both your health and property remain safe from further damage.