What should I do about spreading mold in my rental?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of the living room. When I checked closer, I saw some black spots on the ceiling that seemed to be spreading slowly. The landlord hasn’t addressed it yet, but I’m not sure if it’s my responsibility to clean this or if he should be taking care of it given how long we’ve been here. Should I bring this up with him again, or is there a specific protocol for dealing with mold in rental properties?
Posted by Laura Van Dijk
Asked on December 24, 2025 12:39 pm
0
Hey there! I'm glad you reached out about the mold issue. It's important to handle such situations properly, especially since heavy rains have been reported recently. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, moisture and humidity can lead to mold growth, which is why it's crucial to address your concern promptly.

Firstly, if you're noticing black spots spreading on your ceiling after those recent rainfalls, it’s a definite sign of mold activity. While it might seem manageable initially, it's advised that you get in touch with the landlord as soon as possible to discuss this issue. In the UAE, landlords are generally responsible for ensuring properties are safe and habitable, which includes addressing any significant water damage or mold growth.

However, before taking this step, you can do a few things yourself:
1. Check the Source of Moisture: If there’s a leak or condensation problem, try to identify its source. Fixing these issues can prevent further mold growth.
2. Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation in your living room by opening windows if possible, or using an exhaust fan to reduce moisture levels.

Regarding professional inspection and remediation, it's highly recommended you call a specialist for a thorough evaluation. In the UAE, there are companies like Saniservice that provide mold testing, inspection, and remediation services. Their contact details are 800-MOLDS (or 800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.

In Dubai specifically, you might want to look for companies certified by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). They have stringent guidelines for mold management and remediation. Professional intervention is especially important if the mold area exceeds three square meters, as per UAE laws. Ignoring such issues can lead to health risks like respiratory problems, allergies, or in severe cases, structural damage.

Remember, while you may be responsible for maintaining your personal space, landlords have obligations too. Make sure to bring up this issue with them before considering any drastic actions. If no action is taken by the landlord after a reasonable notice period, you might need to escalate the matter through local tenant rights organizations or real estate management bodies.

Stay proactive and ensure that both parties are aware of their responsibilities. Hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 27, 2025 4:53 am