Who is responsible for mold inspection in a rental property?« Back to Previous Page
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Our master bedroom closet has this weird black speckling on the back wall, and it's been getting worse since the humidity spiked a couple of weeks ago. We’ve been in this JVC villa for almost a year and never had an issue before. My landlord is saying it's because we don't run the AC enough, but we keep it on 24/7. Who is legally responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here?
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In Dubai's rental market, the responsibility for mold inspection and remediation is governed by the rental contract and the Dubai Land Department's (DLD) regulations. The landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, faulty construction, or inadequate waterproofing that lead to moisture intrusion.
However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining the property in a clean and habitable condition, which encompasses operating the AC adequately to manage the extreme humidity. Given Dubai's climate, continuous AC operation is not just for comfort but is a critical requirement to prevent condensation and mold growth, which can occur rapidly. Your case in JVC is a common scenario. The landlord's claim that you do not run the AC enough is a typical first response. However, if you have proof of maintaining the AC 24/7, the issue likely points to a deeper problem, such as a hidden plumbing leak, insufficient insulation in the external wall, or a faulty AC unit itself causing excessive condensation. These are structural or mechanical failures falling under the landlord's purview. Legally, the burden of proof often lies with the tenant to demonstrate proper AC use. We strongly recommend you arrange for a professional, certified mold inspection. The report will identify the moisture source and type of mold, which is crucial evidence for determining liability. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate the problem. For an authoritative assessment and detailed report that is recognized by landlords and the DLD, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. |
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