Who is responsible for fixing AC leak and mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on Dubai rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007 and its amendments, the responsibility for major maintenance and structural repairs falls squarely on the landlord. This includes the building's central AC system, any ducting, and the structural integrity of the property, such as walls affected by leaks.

An AC unit leaking into a wall cavity is a significant issue. The resulting black spots you describe are almost certainly active microbial growth, which is not "just condensation." Wiping it is a temporary and ineffective fix that addresses the symptom, not the root cause. The persistent damp smell is a major red flag indicating a chronic moisture problem within the wall, which requires professional intervention.

Your legal obligation as a tenant is typically limited to reporting the issue in writing to the landlord or property management company immediately. I strongly advise you to do this via email to have a dated record. If the landlord refuses to act, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC) in Dubai.

However, before any legal action, you need documented proof. Given the description of black spots spreading inside the wall, a professional indoor environmental inspection is critical. We would perform moisture mapping, thermal imaging to find the leak's extent, and air/surface sampling to identify the type and concentration of mold spores. This scientific report is your evidence and will outline the necessary remediation protocol, which likely involves accessing the wall cavity, stopping the leak at its source, and proper mold abatement.

Do not attempt to handle this yourself. Improper disturbance can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem. For a certified inspection and a definitive report to present to your landlord, you should call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.