Water damage and mold from AC: landlord or building's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, this is a classic case of post-flood water intrusion leading to microbial growth, a very common issue we're seeing across Dubai right now. The location directly under the AC unit is a critical clue.

The water damage is likely a two-part problem. First, the record rainfall may have overwhelmed the building's external drainage or seeped through the roof/deck, saturating the slab and the AC insulation around the ductwork. Second, if water entered the AC system itself—perhaps through a clogged drain pan or a compromised air handling unit on the roof—it has been continuously distributing moisture and spores every time the unit runs, causing that patchy stain and the persistent damp smell, which is a strong indicator of active mold.

Regarding responsibility in the UAE, this is typically determined by the source of the water. Damage originating from the building's common areas, like the roof or external walls, is generally the responsibility of the Building Management (as per Dubai's Strata Law). However, the internal AC unit and its associated ductwork, up to a certain point, are usually the responsibility of the individual unit owner or, in your case, the landlord as stipulated in the tenancy contract.

You must report this immediately to both your landlord and the building management in writing. Do not attempt to handle significant mold growth yourself; improper cleaning can aerosolize toxins and exacerbate the problem. This requires professional assessment and remediation to identify the exact moisture source, contain the affected area, and perform a proper hygienization process.

For a definitive assessment of liability and a certified remediation plan, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. Call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can document the source and extent of the damage, which is crucial for dealing with the responsible parties.