Who is responsible for mold inspection: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for two years, and just noticed a bunch of black spots spreading along the corner of the bedroom wall behind the wardrobe. The AC unit in that room has been leaking a little on and off for months. Are we responsible for arranging and paying for a mold inspection, or is this something the landlord needs to handle?
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Based on UAE Civil Code and common tenancy contract stipulations, the responsibility for a mold inspection typically falls on the landlord, as they are obligated to provide a habitable property free from structural defects. The situation you've described in Jumeirah Village Circle is a classic example. The persistent AC leak, which is a maintenance issue with the property's fixed installation, is the root cause of the moisture intrusion. This failure to maintain the AC system, leading to a consequential mold problem, is generally the landlord's responsibility to rectify.
However, it is crucial to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Document the issue with clear photographs and videos, noting the AC leak. This creates a paper trail. The landlord is then obligated to address the source of the moisture (the AC repair) and the resultant damage (the mold growth). They should arrange and pay for a professional inspection to determine the full extent of the contamination. A certified mold inspection, including air and surface sampling, is essential to create a protocol for safe and effective remediation, as the visible spots are often just the tip of the iceberg. In Dubai's humid climate, where AC units run year-round, condensation and leaks are a primary driver of indoor mold. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination. For a definitive assessment and to ensure your landlord receives a professional report, we recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. We can provide the certified documentation needed to clarify responsibilities and resolve the issue correctly. |
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