Is landlord responsible for AC mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page
|
The AC vent in our master bedroom in Jumeirah has been leaking a bit, and now there’s a visible black mold spot on the wall behind the bed. My husband has had a persistent cough for the last three weeks that seems worse at night. Is the landlord legally required to pay for professional mold remediation and an air quality test, or is this something I have to handle myself?
|
|
Based on the situation you've described, this is a serious health and safety concern that requires immediate professional attention. The visible black mold, combined with your husband's persistent respiratory symptoms, is a clear indicator of a compromised indoor environment.
Under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants, the landlord is obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes ensuring the structural integrity of the building and the proper functioning of all essential utilities, such as the AC system. A leaking AC unit that causes mold growth due to condensation—a common issue in Dubai's humid climate where AC systems run year-round—typically falls under the landlord's responsibility for maintenance and repair. The resulting mold remediation to restore a healthy living environment is also their financial responsibility. You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing of the issue, detailing the leak and the visible mold growth. It is highly advisable to include a recommendation from a professional mold inspection company to strengthen your case. Given the health symptoms present, we strongly advise against attempting to handle this yourself. Disturbing the mold can aerosolize spores, exacerbating the problem. A certified professional from a company like Saniservice should conduct a comprehensive indoor air quality test and visual inspection to identify the full extent of the contamination, both visible and hidden within the AC ductwork. This data-driven report will be crucial for your landlord and will guide the subsequent remediation protocol. For immediate assistance with expert inspection, testing, and a formal report for your landlord, please call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, or email hello@saniservice.com. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: