Who should fix the mold under the sink?« Back to Previous Page
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After the heavy rains we experienced last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from under the sink in the bathroom. It’s been there for days now, and it’s really concerning me because my kids have started coughing more than usual. The rental agreement doesn’t mention anything about mold or maintenance responsibilities. Who is typically responsible for addressing this issue?
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In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, mold issues like the one under your sink can be quite common, especially post-rainfall. As an expert specializing in mold inspection, testing, and remediation, it's crucial to address this promptly for both health and property protection reasons.
The responsibility of addressing such a situation largely depends on the terms outlined within your rental agreement or lease contract. However, as you mentioned that there is no specific mention regarding mold or maintenance duties, this usually shifts the responsibility towards the landlord in most legal interpretations. The UAE Tenant's Rights Law (Federal Law No. 5 of 1984) and its subsequent amendments emphasize that landlords are responsible for ensuring the property remains in a state fit for habitation, which generally includes addressing such issues. Given the presence of mold and considering your kids' respiratory symptoms, it would be wise to act promptly. The musty smell could indicate active mold growth, which poses health risks, especially for children with weakened immune systems or existing respiratory conditions like asthma. Mold can release allergens and spores into the air, exacerbating these issues. It's advisable to contact your landlord immediately to inform them of this issue. If no response is forthcoming within a reasonable time frame (typically 24-48 hours), you might want to escalate it by reporting to relevant authorities such as the Dubai Municipality or the Consumer Protection Department, which can intervene if necessary and enforce compliance. For accurate assessment and effective remediation, engaging professional services would be recommended. Companies like Saniservice provide comprehensive mold inspection, testing, and remediation services in accordance with local regulations (UAE Order No. 12 of 2015 regarding the control and management of indoor air quality). They employ certified technicians who use advanced equipment to identify the type of mold and its extent before recommending a suitable treatment plan. Remember, proper remediation involves not just removing visible mold but also addressing underlying moisture issues that might have caused the growth in the first place. Saniservice can help with this by suggesting appropriate dehumidification or ventilation solutions as needed. In summary, while you should inform your landlord about the mold under the sink, engaging professional services for inspection and remediation is prudent given the health implications and to ensure compliance with local standards. Don't hesitate to call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance if needed. |
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