Who is responsible for black mold from an AC leak?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now I’m seeing these black, fuzzy patches spreading on the wall behind the headboard. We’ve lived in this Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for two years and it’s never been an issue until now. My landlord is saying it’s from our AC usage and we should handle it, but isn’t fixing the leak his responsibility? Who is legally responsible for the inspection and removal of black mold in a rental here?
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Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the responsibility for maintaining the structural integrity of the rental property, including the repair of fixtures like the air conditioning unit and the resultant damage, falls upon the landlord. The persistent AC leak you describe is a building maintenance issue that has created the moisture source enabling the mold growth. Therefore, your landlord is legally obligated to address both the leak and the resultant mold contamination.
In Dubai's humid climate, where AC systems run year-round, condensation leaks are a primary cause of indoor mold. The black, fuzzy patches are a significant concern and indicate an established colony. It is critical that this is handled professionally. Improper cleaning can aerosolize toxic spores, spreading the contamination throughout your apartment and HVAC system. We strongly recommend you insist on a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species (e.g., Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly called "black mold") and the full extent of the infestation, which is often hidden within wall cavities. This report will provide the necessary evidence to formally request remediation from your landlord. The remediation process must involve fixing the leak at its source, followed by the containment, removal, and hygienization of affected materials by trained technicians using specialized equipment like HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers. For immediate assistance with a professional inspection and a formal report for your landlord, we advise you to contact our experts. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment. |
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