Is landlord responsible for AC leak mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC unit in our master bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit for a couple of weeks, and now I'm seeing black spots spreading on the wall behind the curtain. The landlord is saying we need to pay for the cleaning because we didn't report the leak sooner, but we only just noticed it. Is the landlord responsible for fixing the leak and the mold, or are we on the hook for this?
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Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is typically responsible for the maintenance of the property's structure and key installations, which explicitly includes the central air conditioning system and any resultant damage from its failure. Your situation, involving an AC leak leading to mold growth on the wall, falls squarely under this obligation. The landlord's argument that you are liable due to delayed reporting is generally weak, as the onus is on them to ensure the property is habitable and free from health hazards like mold, which is a recognized consequence of AC malfunctions.
However, your prompt reporting is crucial. Now that you have noticed the black spots, you must formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best for documentation) and request immediate repairs. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the contamination. Given Dubai's high humidity and the persistent use of AC, what appears as a small leak can cause extensive hidden mold within wall cavities. A professional inspection is essential to assess the full scope. We recommend contacting Saniservice for a comprehensive mold assessment and IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) test. Our certified experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the source and extent of the problem, providing a detailed report that can be used to formally request remediation from your landlord. For immediate assistance, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
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