Who pays for mold inspection from landlord's AC leak?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking on and off for a couple of months, and now I'm seeing black spots spreading on the wall and our stored clothes. We’ve been in this Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for over a year and the landlord is being slow to respond. Who is legally responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection here, me as the tenant or the building management?
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Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property and ensure it is habitable. This includes the maintenance and repair of all fixed installations, such as the air conditioning system. Since the mold growth is a direct result of a persistent AC leak in the closet, the responsibility for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection and subsequent remediation falls squarely on the landlord.
The black spots you describe are a clear sign of active microbial growth, which is a significant health and property concern. In Dubai's humid climate, where AC units run year-round, condensation leaks create the perfect environment for mold to proliferate rapidly. A DIY approach is insufficient and can actually spread the spores. A professional inspection is critical to determine the full extent of the contamination, which often spreads inside wall cavities and the AC ductwork itself, and to identify the specific species of mold, which informs the correct remediation protocol. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) about the issue, citing the specific law, and request immediate action. If they remain unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For a definitive assessment and a legally defensible report, I strongly recommend you engage a certified professional. Our team at Saniservice is equipped to provide a comprehensive inspection, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, and can issue a detailed report for your landlord. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. Do not delay, as the problem will only worsen. |
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