Is landlord responsible for black mold after Dubai rains?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing more than usual and I finally found black mold in the corner of their bedroom closet, which is on an outside wall. We've lived in this Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for over a year and it wasn't an issue until after the heavy rains a few weeks ago. I wiped it down with vinegar but it came back darker than before.
Am I responsible for the cleanup and repairs, or is this something I need to get my landlord to handle immediately?
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Under Dubai's rental law, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing leaks and water ingress from external walls or roofs, which are the most common cause of recurring mold after heavy rain. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mold and the affected external wall.
Given that wiping it with vinegar failed and it returned worse, the moisture source is still active. This is a health concern, especially for children. A professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the exact entry point of the water and the extent of the hidden moisture damage, which is often more severe inside the wall cavity. Landlords are typically obligated to fix the leak and the damage it caused, which includes proper mold remediation. However, the responsibility for the contents of the home, like cleaning personal items in the closet, often falls to the tenant. The high humidity following Dubai rains, combined with our year-round AC use, creates a perfect environment for mold if any moisture is present. For your family's health, request immediate action to stop the water intrusion. A proper fix involves repairing the leak, drying the structure completely with professional equipment, and then removing the mold. Simply repainting or wiping the surface will not solve a problem caused by a structural leak. |
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