What should I do about mold removal?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a large patch of black mold behind our bedroom wardrobe, probably from a hidden AC leak. My toddler has been coughing for a month and I'm really worried it's the cause. Is the landlord legally required to handle and pay for professional mold removal, or is this on me as the tenant?
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First, document the mold with clear photos and videos, noting its location behind the wardrobe and any visible signs of moisture. Immediately notify your landlord or property management company in writing. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are typically responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, which includes fixing leaks that lead to mold. The persistent humidity and constant AC use here mean hidden condensation leaks are a common issue.
Given your toddler's prolonged cough, this is a health priority. Do not attempt to remove it yourself with bleach or store-bought sprays, as disturbing it can aerosolize spores and worsen air quality. Professional remediation is advised for a patch larger than a square meter or any mold linked to a health symptom. A proper remediation company will first identify and fix the moisture source (likely an AC condensate drain leak), then isolate the area, remove contaminated materials like the drywall, and use HEPA filtration to clean the air. They should provide a post-remediation verification test to confirm spore levels are safe. This is crucial in Dubai’s climate to prevent rapid regrowth. Since this involves your child's health and a structural leak, push for the landlord to arrange and cover the cost of a certified professional. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). For your peace of mind, a company with its own microbiology lab can provide the concrete, verifiable testing data needed to confirm the environment is safe for your family. |
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