Is my landlord responsible for AC mold in my apartment?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit, and now there's a large patch of black mold spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe in my Deira apartment. My landlord says it's our fault for not maintaining the AC, but we just got it serviced three months ago. Who is legally responsible for fixing the mold and the damage to the wall?
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Based on my professional experience in environmental inspection and remediation in Dubai, the responsibility for the mold issue you're describing is highly likely to fall on your landlord, not you.
The core of the issue is the AC leak, which is the source of moisture causing the mold growth. In Dubai's rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, landlords are legally obligated to maintain the property's main structural components and essential services, which includes the central AC system or the fixed AC units provided with the apartment. Since you had the AC serviced just three months ago, you have fulfilled your tenant obligation for basic maintenance. A leak indicates a mechanical or installation failure of the unit itself or its drainage line, which is the landlord's responsibility to repair. The extreme humidity and year-round AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold, particularly Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), when condensation or leaks occur. The mold behind the wardrobe is a direct result of the unresolved moisture from the leak. It is a health hazard and can cause structural damage to the wall if not addressed professionally. I strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize toxic spores. You require a professional mold inspection to identify the exact species, assess the spore count in the air, and create a remediation protocol. This certified report will also serve as vital evidence for your landlord. For a definitive assessment and to resolve this safely, contact our specialists at Saniservice. We can provide the necessary inspection and documentation. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a survey. Present the findings to your landlord, referencing their obligation to maintain the property in a habitable condition. |
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