Is landlord responsible for AC leak mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom in our Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment has been leaking a bit, and now we've got a patch of black mold on the wall behind the wardrobe. It's been getting worse over the last few weeks and my husband's allergies have been acting up. Is the landlord legally required to handle and pay for the mold remediation, or is this on us as tenants to fix?
Posted by Lisa Johnson
Asked on March 10, 2026 1:40 pm
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the property's main structural components and essential utilities, which includes the central air conditioning system. If the AC leak is due to a fault in the unit itself, the chiller piping, or the building's central cooling infrastructure, the obligation to repair the leak and address the resulting damage falls on the landlord.

However, the responsibility can shift to you, the tenant, if the damage is proven to be a result of your own misuse or negligence. For instance, if the filter was never cleaned, leading to a blockage and overflow, that could be considered tenant negligence.

The black mold you describe, especially with associated health symptoms like your husband's allergies, is a serious concern that requires immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize the spores and worsen the contamination.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the AC leak and the mold growth, requesting immediate remediation. It is highly advisable to get a professional indoor environmental inspection to document the extent of the mold and identify the exact moisture source. This report will be crucial evidence if there is any dispute over liability.

For a situation like this in Jumeirah Village Triangle, we strongly recommend a certified assessment. Call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a thorough inspection and a clear path to resolution.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 11, 2026 9:18 pm