Is landlord responsible for AC mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for about a year and the AC unit in the master bedroom has started blowing out this damp, earthy smell. I finally pulled the filter out last weekend and the entire inside of the vent is covered in black and green fuzzy patches. We've been running the AC constantly since the weather heated up. Is the landlord responsible for getting this professionally cleaned, or is this considered our fault for not maintaining it properly?
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In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and year-round AC use are the norm, mold in AC units is a common yet serious issue. The responsibility for remediation, as per the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), typically falls on the landlord for structural and central systems, including the AC ductwork and the unit itself. Your obligation as a tenant generally covers routine maintenance, such as replacing the disposable filter.
The continuous operation of the AC, while understandable, creates significant condensation within the system. This moisture, combined with Dubai's ambient humidity and dust, creates an ideal environment for microbial growth. The black and green fuzzy patches you describe are a clear sign of active colonization, likely including species like Cladosporium or Aspergillus. This is not a superficial issue; it indicates the entire internal evaporator coil and drain pan are contaminated. Simply cleaning the visible vent is insufficient and can aerosolize spores, worsening indoor air quality. This is a hygienization issue that requires professional remediation. DIY attempts with bleach are ineffective and can damage the unit. A certified team must use EPA-approved biocides, high-powered HEPA vacuums, and abrasive cleaning systems to decontaminate the internal components. Given the visible growth, I strongly recommend a professional inspection to assess the full extent of the contamination. Contact your landlord immediately, citing your findings and the relevant rental law. For expert assessment and certified remediation, I recommend our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. |
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