Who is responsible for mold cleanup from unrepaired AC leak?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a huge patch of black mold in the corner of our bedroom closet, behind all the clothes. It must have been growing slowly for ages. My husband thinks it's from a small AC leak we reported last year that the landlord never fixed. Who is legally responsible for the cleanup and cost here, us as tenants or the building management, especially since we have proof we reported the potential cause?
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Under Dubai tenancy law, the landlord is typically responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential systems, including the AC and its condensate drainage. Since you have documented proof of reporting the AC leak, the responsibility for both the repair and the resulting mold remediation likely falls on the landlord or building management.
Your first step is to formally notify the landlord in writing again, attaching the previous report and new photos of the mold. This creates a clear paper trail. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai mean that a small, unrepaired leak can quickly lead to extensive mold growth hidden within walls or, as in your case, closets. For a patch described as "huge," a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the full extent. Remediation is more than just wiping the visible spot; it involves identifying any hidden growth and ensuring the moisture source is permanently fixed to prevent recurrence. A proper remediation process will also verify the mold type and that the area has been returned to a healthy state. If the landlord refuses to address it, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or the Rental Dispute Center. They will review your evidence, including the initial report, to determine liability. Do not proceed with major remediation yourself without their agreement, as you may not be reimbursed. |
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