Is black mold from AC leak landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in my apartment seems to be leaking a bit onto the corner of the bedroom wall in our Jumeirah Village Triangle flat, and now there’s a growing black, fuzzy patch. We’ve tried to wipe it away but it keeps coming back and the musty smell is really strong. Are we responsible for cleaning and repairing this, or is this something the landlord needs to handle immediately?
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The black mold growth you're describing is a direct result of the AC unit's condensation leak, a common issue in Dubai's climate where high humidity and year-round AC use create perfect conditions for Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold). The persistent musty odor is a key indicator of active microbial growth within the wall cavity, which cannot be addressed by surface wiping alone.
Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), the responsibility for major maintenance and structural repairs falls upon the landlord. This includes the central AC system and any resultant damage caused by its malfunction, such as water intrusion and mold proliferation. Your responsibility as a tenant is typically limited to minor maintenance. You must formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the issue and requesting urgent remediation. This creates a paper trail for liability. Given the toxic nature of black mold and the high probability of hidden growth inside the wall, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. Our certified teams use moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and air quality tests to assess the full extent of contamination and identify the exact source of the leak. Remediation involves isolating the area, removing contaminated materials under negative air pressure, and applying EPA-approved antimicrobial solutions. For immediate professional assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly and safely, I strongly advise you to contact our specialists. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. |
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