Is my landlord responsible for AC mold in JVC?« Back to Previous Page
|
The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a little onto the carpet for a couple of months, and now I’m seeing a big black mold patch spreading out from the wall. I’ve wiped it down with bleach but it keeps coming back worse. Who is responsible for fixing this and the damage, me as the tenant or my landlord in Jumeirah Village Circle?
|
|
Your landlord is typically responsible for addressing the AC unit's malfunction and the resulting structural mold damage. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords must maintain the property's structure and major systems, including the central AC. The recurring leak is the source of the problem, and its repair falls squarely on the property owner.
The mold regrowth after bleach cleaning confirms the issue is not superficial. Bleach only removes surface discoloration on non-porous materials; it cannot penetrate drywall or carpet to kill the root structure. In Dubai's high humidity, the hidden moisture from the leak continues to feed the infestation. Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing (email is best), with clear photos of the leak and mold patch. They are obligated to arrange for a professional to fix the AC leak, assess the full extent of the water damage, and perform proper mold remediation. This involves removing and replacing the affected porous materials (like contaminated drywall and carpet padding) and using professional-grade antimicrobial treatments. For a case of this visible size and with a known ongoing moisture source, a professional inspection is strongly advised to determine the full scope. Remediation is complex, as spores will have spread through the AC system. Simply wiping it down is a health risk and will not solve the problem. The landlord should cover the cost of repairs and remediation for damage caused by the property's faulty fixture. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: