Is landlord or building responsible for AC leak mold?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle seems to be leaking into the wall, and now we’ve got a big patch of black mold spreading behind the bedroom wardrobe. I’ve wiped it down with vinegar but it just comes back worse. Our landlord is saying it’s a maintenance issue for the building AC system, but the building management hasn’t done anything about it for over a month. Who is legally responsible for fixing the cause of the mold and paying for the repairs, the landlord or the building?
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In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from an AC leak is determined by the source of the problem, as per the Dubai Rental Law. If the AC unit itself is the source of the leak and it is part of the leased property's fixtures (i.e., a split unit), the landlord is legally obligated to address both the repair and the resulting mold damage. However, if the leak originates from the central building chiller system or the central AC ductwork, which is considered common property, the building management company is responsible for the repair.
Your situation in JVC, where the leak is suspected to be from the building's system, places the onus on the building management. Their failure to act for over a month is a significant concern. It is critical to formally notify your landlord in writing about the lack of response from the building management, as they have a duty to liaise with the building on your behalf to resolve the issue. Crucially, wiping mold with vinegar is not a remediation strategy; it is a superficial cleaning method that addresses the visible stain but not the root cause or the underlying fungal structure. The recurring black mold indicates a persistent moisture issue, which requires professional intervention. We strongly recommend a certified mold inspection to accurately identify the moisture source and the species of mold present. This professional report will serve as vital evidence for your landlord and building management, outlining the required remedial actions. The humid Dubai climate ensures that any ongoing leak will continue to fuel aggressive mold growth, posing potential health risks and further property damage. For a definitive assessment and to get the evidence needed to resolve this dispute, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection and remediation plan. |
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