AC leak causing mold and toddler illness: landlord or management« Back to Previous Page

A persistent AC leak causing visible mold growth and correlating respiratory symptoms in a toddler requires immediate action. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold, this situation should not be ignored.

Your responsibility as a tenant is to report the issue to the building management or landlord in writing immediately. Their responsibility is to address the source of the leak, which is a building maintenance issue. Under typical UAE tenancy contracts, structural repairs and maintenance of central AC systems (like the chiller or piping) fall to the landlord or property management company. You are responsible for maintaining a clean and habitable unit and for any damage caused by a failure to report an issue promptly.

Given your toddler's persistent symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised. The black spots indicate an active colony, and its spores are now in the air. A certified mold inspector can identify the species and the full extent of the contamination, which is often hidden within walls or the AC unit itself. This documented evidence is crucial for holding the responsible party accountable for proper remediation, not just a superficial clean.

First, formally notify your building management of the AC leak and the resulting mold. Then, for your family's health, consider an independent indoor environmental assessment to quantify the risk and provide a scope of work for the landlord to execute. The goal is to stop the moisture source, properly remove the contaminated materials, and clean the air, not just paint over the problem.