Should I report mold to the landlord?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a lot of mold growing around the window sill in my bedroom. My son has been sneezing and his eyes are itchy ever since we moved into this rental apartment two years ago. The landlord hasn't mentioned anything about cleaning or maintaining the property, but I'm not sure if it's my responsibility to address these issues. Should I bring up the mold with the landlord, or is there something else I should consider first?
Posted by Elizabeth Robinson
Asked on December 20, 2025 1:05 am
0
Absolutely, you should definitely bring up the mold issue to your landlord. In Dubai and the UAE, landlords have responsibilities towards maintaining their properties in a habitable condition. The building code and tenant rights within the UAE do state that the landlord is responsible for ensuring a safe environment free from hazardous conditions like mold growth.

Firstly, you need to gather some evidence of the mold growth around your window sill. Take clear photographs or videos so there’s no doubt about the extent of the issue. This can be crucial in supporting your case with the landlord.

It's important to consider that while minor issues might not immediately warrant legal action, persistent and visible mold growth is a serious matter. It could lead to health concerns for you and especially your son who has shown signs of allergies. The presence of mold can trigger or worsen respiratory conditions like asthma.

Before making any formal complaints, you may want to discuss the situation with the landlord first. Sometimes landlords might not be aware of these issues due to lack of maintenance staff or regular inspections. A polite conversation could resolve the matter without escalating it into a complaint.

However, if no action is taken within a reasonable timeframe (like 1-2 weeks), it's advisable to seek professional help for an inspection and remediation. You can call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance. They offer expert mold testing and removal services which are compliant with local regulations.

Remember, addressing the issue promptly is key as prolonged exposure to mold can cause severe health problems including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even more serious conditions in extreme cases. Keeping your child's wellbeing at heart, this step should not be delayed.

In Dubai, you have rights under the Federal Law No. 12 of 2003 on Civil Transactions regarding rental agreements. Your landlord is required to ensure that the property meets safety standards and is free from hazards like mold. If necessary, you can also consult with a legal advisor specializing in tenant rights for further guidance.

Taking these steps not only helps maintain your health but also ensures compliance with local regulations. After all, a clean, healthy living environment should be every resident's right!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 21, 2025 2:08 pm