Who is responsible for AC mold: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page
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Our AC unit in the bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last few months, and now we’ve spotted a patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading on the wall behind the curtain. We’ve told the building management about the leak a couple of times but they’ve been slow to fix it. Who is responsible for handling the mold removal and fixing the root cause – me as the tenant or the landlord?
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Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the responsibility for maintenance and structural repairs falls upon the landlord. This includes the building's central AC system and any resultant damage from its failure, such as water leaks leading to mold growth. As a tenant, your obligation is to promptly report these issues, which you have done. The landlord is legally required to address the root cause—the leaking AC unit—to prevent further damage and potential health risks.
The black, fuzzy mold you describe is a serious concern, often indicative of Stachybotrys chartarum or other toxigenic species, which can proliferate rapidly in Dubai's humid climate due to constant AC condensation. This is not a superficial cleaning task; it requires professional remediation. The moisture must be stopped, the affected building materials properly assessed, and the mold safely contained and removed to prevent spore dispersal. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to determine the full extent of the contamination, which often spreads unseen within wall cavities. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate the problem. For immediate assistance with inspection and certified remediation, please contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a assessment. We can also provide a detailed report for your landlord to expedite the necessary repairs. |
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