Is landlord responsible for mold on chiller unit?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the main structural components and central systems of the property. This includes the AC and chiller system, as it is considered a fundamental provision of the rental unit. The presence of mold on or around the indoor chiller unit is a clear sign of a underlying moisture issue, often stemming from a clogged condensate drain line, poor insulation, or a malfunction in the unit itself – all of which are the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

However, it's critical to determine the extent of the contamination. Surface mold on the external plastic casing might be a minor cleaning issue, but if the mold growth is extensive, inside the unit, or has spread to adjacent walls and ceilings, it indicates a serious moisture problem that requires professional remediation. In the high humidity of Dubai, this is not just a cosmetic issue; it's a potential health hazard.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Include clear photographs. They are obligated to address the root cause (the chiller fault) and the resulting damage (the mold). Do not attempt to remediate it yourself with bleach, as this will not solve the moisture source and can exacerbate the problem.

For a proper assessment and to ensure the remediation is done to international standards, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. We can identify the exact species and the full scope of the contamination, providing a report you can present to your landlord.

Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule an inspection. We can document everything for you and even liaise directly with your property manager to ensure it's handled correctly.