Is my leaking AC and smell the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and the main systems of the property, which includes the central AC chiller system and its associated pipework. A leaking AC unit that is causing a persistent damp smell is a maintenance issue that falls under their obligation to provide a habitable dwelling.

The smell you're describing is a classic indicator of microbial growth, likely mold, within the chilled water fan coil unit (FCU) in your bedroom. This occurs when stagnant water from the leak sits in the drain pan or when the drain line is clogged, creating a damp environment where mold and bacteria thrive. Every time the unit turns on, it aerosolizes these contaminants into your living space, which can pose a health risk.

Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, as they are obligated to address it. Do not attempt to fix a central chiller system yourself. We strongly recommend a professional inspection and hygienization service. Our certified technicians can conduct air and swab testing to identify the specific mold types and perform a comprehensive cleaning of the FCU, drain pan, and condensate line using EPA-approved disinfectants. This ensures the problem is solved at the source, not just masked.

For a definitive assessment and to get the issue resolved properly, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS or email us at hello@saniservice.com. We can also provide a formal report for your landlord if needed.