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

Based on Dubai's rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007 and its amendments, the responsibility for maintenance of major building components like the central AC system and the structure of the property falls squarely on the landlord. An AC unit leaking into the wall is a structural and mechanical failure, not a result of tenant usage habits. The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that failure.

Your landlord's claim that not running the AC enough caused the issue is incorrect. While consistent AC use helps control humidity, a properly functioning system should not leak, period. The leak itself is the root cause, creating the damp conditions that allow mold to flourish. A "huge patch" of black mold behind a fixed fixture like a wardrobe is a serious contamination issue that requires professional remediation, not a simple wipe-down. The strong smell indicates active microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs), which can impact indoor air quality.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) about the issue, reiterating that the AC leak is causing structural damage and a health hazard. Request immediate, professional mold remediation and repairs. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai (RDC). For documentation and to definitively establish the cause and extent, I highly recommend a professional indoor environmental inspection and air quality testing. This provides a scientific report you can use in any dispute.

For a situation this severe, don't delay. Call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an assessment. We can document the damage, identify the source, and provide the certified report you need to resolve this with your landlord.