Who pays for ceiling mold and leaks?« Back to Previous Page

In the realm of property maintenance within the UAE and specifically Dubai, the responsibility for ceiling mold and leaks can vary. It largely hinges on who owns the property and whether it's a residential area or commercial space.

For residential properties, the general rule is that the landlord or property owner is typically responsible for major structural issues such as leaking pipes or faulty HVAC systems (which may include mold chillers). However, in Dubai, the laws are nuanced. The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) guidelines state that a tenant should report any defects to their landlord within 72 hours of discovery and the landlord has up to 14 days to address the issue. If the landlord fails to act or refuses to fix the problem, tenants can seek assistance from RERA.

In the case of mold chiller systems, these are more complex as they're part of the HVAC system which is usually managed by the building's management company in residential areas or directly by the owner in a villa setting. If the mold growth is due to malfunctioning equipment like the chiller, then the maintenance and repair responsibility would fall on the party responsible for that system.

For commercial spaces, the tenant may be required to maintain certain parts of the property as per the lease agreement, including HVAC systems and any associated moisture control measures. In such cases, it’s crucial to review the lease documents carefully or seek legal advice if there's any ambiguity.

Given the specifics in your scenario with a damp ceiling, I would recommend scheduling an inspection by a professional environmental consultant who can determine the root cause of the issue and provide remediation advice. This is especially important given the potential for mold growth which can pose health risks.

In Dubai, companies like Saniservice (hello@saniservice.com or call 800-MOLDS / 800-66537) offer expert services in this area. They have the necessary equipment and experience to thoroughly assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions.

Remember, prevention is key—regular maintenance of HVAC systems can help avoid such issues. And as always, staying informed about local regulations and laws regarding property maintenance can be invaluable when dealing with these matters.