Is landlord responsible for AC leak causing black mold?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in our bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a little for a while, but I just pulled back the corner of the carpet and found a huge patch of black mold underneath. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it. I’m worried about my toddler’s breathing and don’t know if this is something I have to fix myself or if the landlord is legally responsible for the remediation.
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Based on the conditions you've described in Jumeirah Village Circle, this is a serious situation requiring immediate attention, especially with a toddler in the home. The combination of a long-standing AC leak and Dubai's high humidity creates a perfect environment for aggressive mold growth, particularly the dangerous black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) you have likely found.
Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is fundamentally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes the maintenance and repair of all central fixtures, such as the air conditioning system. The AC leak is the root cause of the moisture intrusion, and therefore the landlord is legally obligated to address both the repair of the AC unit and the resultant mold contamination. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the issue and including photographs. However, due to the extensive hidden growth and the significant health risks posed by mycotoxins from black mold, particularly to a child's respiratory system, I strongly advise against attempting remediation yourself. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize spores throughout your bedroom, drastically increasing exposure. This is a job for certified professionals. Our team at Saniservice specializes in this exact scenario. We would conduct a comprehensive inspection to identify the full extent of the contamination (often far greater than what is visible), provide a detailed report for your landlord, and execute a safe, scientific remediation process involving containment, air filtration, removal of affected materials, and hygienization. For immediate consultation and to arrange a professional assessment, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Your family's health is paramount. |
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