Who is responsible for cleaning moldy AC ducts, tenant or building?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contracts, the responsibility for maintenance typically falls into two categories. The property owner or building management is generally responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the main building systems, which includes the central AC chiller unit and the primary ductwork running inside the walls or ceilings.

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for the day-to-day upkeep and cleaning of the living space. This often includes the cleaning of the fan coil units (FCUs) inside your apartment, the drip pans, the filters, and the accessible vent covers. The black, fuzzy growth you're describing inside the duct immediately at the vent is a very serious issue. It indicates a significant moisture problem, likely from a clogged condensate drain line or an improperly insulated duct, which has created the perfect environment for toxic mold growth. This is almost certainly the cause of your husband's respiratory issues.

Your first step is to formally notify your building management or landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos of the contamination. They are obligated to address the source of the moisture and remediate the main ducts. However, for a problem of this visible severity, I strongly recommend you do not wait. This requires immediate professional assessment and remediation to protect your health.

We need to identify the exact species of mold (like Stachybotrys, which is that black color) and the full extent of the contamination. Please do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it will aerosolize harmful spores throughout your apartment.

Call our certified team immediately at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an emergency inspection and IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) test. We can provide a full report to present to your landlord, outlining the required remediation steps as per Dubai Municipality guidelines.