Is landlord responsible for AC mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC unit in our master bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit, and now we’ve found black mold spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. Our landlord is saying it's our fault for not maintaining the AC, but we get it serviced annually. Who is legally responsible for fixing the mold and the wall in this situation?
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In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and year-round AC use are the norm, condensation and subsequent mold growth are common issues. The legal responsibility for rectifying this situation in your Jumeirah Village Circle villa is typically defined by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended (the Dubai Rental Law).
The landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the main structure of the property, including internal walls and the fixed installation of the AC unit itself. If the leak originates from the AC's internal drain pan, a clogged condensate line, or faulty installation within the wall, this falls under structural maintenance. Your annual servicing of the AC unit is a strong point in your favor, as it demonstrates tenant-side maintenance of the appliance's mechanical parts. The mold on the wall is a direct consequence of the water leak, not a lack of cleaning by the tenant. We strongly recommend you do not attempt to handle this yourself. Disturbing active mold growth can exacerbate spore dispersal. Your first step should be to engage a professional mold inspection and testing company, like Saniservice. A certified inspector can identify the exact moisture source and species of mold, providing a definitive report that legally substantiates the cause. This technical report is crucial for discussions with your landlord. For a professional assessment and remediation quote, we advise you to call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. They can document the issue to professional standards, which will support your case with the landlord and, if necessary, the Rental Dispute Center. |
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