Is landlord responsible for AC leak mold and damaged clothes?« Back to Previous Page
|
The AC in our master bedroom closet in Jumeirah Lakes Towers has been leaking for a while, and now there's a huge patch of black mold spreading on the wall and our clothes. We told the building maintenance about the leak a month ago but they haven't fixed the AC unit itself. Is the landlord responsible for the mold remediation and our damaged belongings, or is that on us?
|
|
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 and its amendments, the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the property's core structure and essential services, which includes the central air conditioning system. The persistent AC leak is a maintenance failure, and the resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of this unresolved issue. The landlord's obligation is to provide a habitable property, and a significant mold infestation breaches this.
Given the climate in Dubai, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC, condensation leaks are a primary cause of severe mold issues. The black mold you describe is a serious concern and indicates a long-standing moisture problem. The landlord is likely liable for the professional remediation of the mold on the wall and the repair of the AC unit itself. Regarding your damaged belongings, you should document everything thoroughly. Take clear, dated photographs and videos of the mold, the leaking AC unit, and all damaged clothing. Maintain a written record of all communications with the building maintenance and the landlord, including the initial report a month ago. This evidence is crucial for claiming compensation for your damaged property. For a case of this severity, a professional inspection and remediation is non-negotiable. DIY cleaning is ineffective and can aerosolize toxic spores. We strongly recommend you contact a certified professional immediately to assess the full extent of the contamination and provide a formal report, which can be used to formally request action from your landlord. For immediate assistance, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment and remediation plan. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: