Who pays for mold inspection in my JVC apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Your tenancy contract is the primary document that determines responsibility. Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and major systems of the property, which typically includes the central AC system. Mold originating from the AC unit due to a maintenance issue, like a clogged drain line or internal condensation problem, is often the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

However, if the mold is a direct result of tenant negligence, such as failing to report a water leak or extreme lack of ventilation leading to humidity buildup, the cost could fall to you. The damp, earthy smell and visible growth around the vent strongly indicate an issue within the AC system itself, which leans toward the landlord's responsibility.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including clear photographs of the black spots. Request that they arrange and cover the cost of a professional mold inspection to identify the source and type of mold. Given Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use, this is a common issue they should address promptly to prevent further damage to the property and potential health impacts.

If they are unresponsive, you can reference your rights to necessary maintenance under the rental law. A professional inspection with a detailed report from a certified provider is crucial, as it provides documented evidence of the issue's cause, which supports your case for who should pay for the subsequent remediation.