Is black mold from AC leak my responsibility in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our master bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a little for a couple of months, and now I'm seeing these black speckles in the corner of the closet where the wall is always cold. My landlord says it's just dirt from the AC, but it keeps coming back after I wipe it away. Am I responsible for getting this tested and cleaned, or is this something the building management or my landlord has to handle?
Posted by Christopher Jones
Asked on March 19, 2026 3:42 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described, it is highly likely that you are dealing with a mold colony, not just dirt. The constant moisture from the AC leak, combined with the cold surface of the wall, creates the perfect breeding ground for mold. The fact it returns after wiping confirms it's a living organism growing from within the wall cavity.

Regarding responsibility in Dubai, the answer is typically clear-cut. According to standard tenancy contract terms and the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's main structure and essential services, which includes the central AC system and any damage resulting from its failure. The leak is the root cause, and the resulting mold growth is considered consequential damage. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) about the AC leak and the subsequent mold issue, requesting immediate repairs and remediation.

However, do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing visible mold can release a massive amount of spores, spreading the contamination. This requires professional assessment and remediation. We use specialized tools like borescopes and moisture meters to find the full extent of the hidden mold behind the walls, which is almost always worse than what's visible.

For a proper inspection and a definitive report you can present to your landlord, it's best to call a certified professional. You can reach our team for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 21, 2026 2:27 pm