Tenant or landlord responsible for mold from AC issue?« Back to Previous Page

This is a very common issue we see in Dubai, particularly in older Jumeirah apartments where AC systems are under significant strain. The core of the problem is almost certainly inadequate dehumidification from the AC unit, leading to elevated relative humidity levels that allow mold to proliferate, especially on cold surfaces like AC vents and external wall corners.

In the UAE, the responsibility for maintenance and repairs of fixed air conditioning systems falls squarely on the landlord, as per standard tenancy contract regulations (EJARI). This includes ensuring the unit's core functions—cooling and dehumidification—are operating correctly. The mold growth is a direct symptom of the AC's failure to properly manage humidity, which is a landlord maintenance issue.

However, as a tenant, you have an obligation to report this in writing immediately. Do not delay, as prolonged mold exposure is a health risk, especially for children. Send a formal email to your landlord or property management company detailing the problem, including the visible mold and the damp feeling. This creates a paper trail.

Given that you already see mold, this is beyond a simple fix. The AC likely requires a professional service to check refrigerant levels, clean the evaporator coils, and ensure the condensate drain is not blocked. Furthermore, the existing mold growth will need proper remediation to prevent spores from spreading.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your family's health, I strongly recommend a professional indoor environmental quality inspection. We can measure the precise humidity levels, identify the source of the moisture, and provide a formal report for your landlord.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. This will clearly establish the cause and responsibility, ensuring the problem is resolved correctly and safely.