Found Hidden Mold from AC Leak; First Step with Landlord?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been making us all stuffy, and I just pulled the couch away from the wall to find a huge patch of black mold behind it. It must have been growing slowly for months from a hidden AC condensation leak. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this. What’s the first step I should take with my landlord for a proper mold inspection and remediation?
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Document the mold with clear photos and videos, noting its location relative to the AC unit. This is your primary evidence.
Notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, referencing the photos and connecting the mold to the AC condensation leak. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services like AC, which includes addressing leaks that cause habitability issues. Until it's resolved, minimize exposure by keeping the area ventilated and avoiding direct contact with the mold. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can agitate spores and does not address the moisture source. For a case of this size and origin, a professional inspection is necessary. The inspector will identify the exact mold type and moisture source, which is critical for proper remediation. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and year-round AC use, hidden condensation leaks are a common cause of persistent mold. Remediation must fix the leak first, then properly remove the contaminated materials and treat the area to prevent recurrence. Request that the landlord hires a certified mold remediation company that provides before-and-after lab testing to verify the space is safe. This is the standard for a proper resolution. |
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