Dubai: People living in a new housing development said rats have been seen scurrying around in their flats.
According to the Le Grande Chateau website, the Jumeirah Village Circle is synonymous with "majestic living". But for a few residents, it has become a nightmare after they've discovered rodents in their apartments.
Some tenants are even considering moving out. The development built by Al Fara'a Properties is located between Emirates, Al Khail and Al Barsha roads and comprises a mix of one- to three-bedroom apartments.
A British woman, who moved into a flat in October, said she felt "sick and disgusted" at the thought of rats in her home. She said her neighbour told her that a rat had been found in the kitchen.
"They blocked the hole in the ceiling from where it might have entered. Apparently, the rat travelled through the vents to our flat. We even spotted paw prints on our kitchen cabinets and [rat] droppings," she said and added that the rats were entering through a large hole in the ceiling.
"It's unpleasant to have a rat in your flat. I'm worried it may spread diseases," another British expat said. On January 13, residents complained to the building management. Pest control teams were sent to put sticky pads and rat poison, but nothing was done to block the ceiling gaps.
Management's response
Nicole Martin, Group Commu-nications Manager of Al Fara'a Group, said they received only one rat-related complaint in January.
"It was from two third-floor apartments that were adjacent to each other. We called in our pest control supplier along with our building contractor, who ensured that all areas of access were blocked. The problem was stopped within 48 hours. We have confirmed with the occupants that there have been no further problems."
