Who is responsible for mold removal, landlord or tenant?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that's been spreading along the ceiling in our master bedroom closet. It started as a small patch after that really humid week last month, but now it's getting bigger and I'm worried about their health. Our landlord is saying it's our fault for not ventilating properly, but we run the AC constantly. Who is actually responsible for getting this tested and removed in a rental, the tenant or the landlord?
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Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for structural repairs and issues related to the building's integrity falls upon the landlord. This includes resolving problems like mold infestation that originate from construction defects, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation. These are the most common causes in Dubai's climate, where extreme humidity and condensation within AC systems often lead to mold growth inside walls and ceilings, which is not a tenant-caused issue.
Your situation, where mold is spreading on the ceiling, strongly suggests an underlying moisture problem, such as a hidden leak in the plumbing or from the roof/deck above, or condensation within the AC ductwork. Merely cleaning the visible mold is a temporary fix; the root cause must be professionally identified and remedied. While tenants are responsible for maintaining general cleanliness and ensuring adequate ventilation, running the AC constantly, as you do, is the primary method of controlling humidity in Dubai and is generally considered sufficient tenant-level action. For a definitive resolution and to protect your family's health, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentrations, and use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion. This evidence-based report will clearly define liability. Do not attempt to remove significant black mold yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and exacerbate the problem. For testing and safe, guaranteed remediation, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment. |
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