What's the difference between AC maintenance and a repair?« Back to Previous Page

Our building in Jumeirah Village Circle just had its annual AC service, but the unit in my bedroom is still making a constant rattling sound that keeps me up at night. I’ve been reporting it to the maintenance team for the past three weeks, but they keep saying it’s fine. What’s the actual difference between what’s considered routine maintenance, which is the landlord's responsibility, and a bigger repair that I might have to push them to fix?
Posted by Timothy Martinez
Asked on March 25, 2026 9:29 am
Excellent question, and a very common point of confusion for tenants here in Dubai. As an IEQ specialist, I deal with the consequences of this misunderstanding all the time.

Fundamentally, AC Maintenance is a preventative activity. It's the scheduled, routine service—like the annual one you just had—aimed at preventing problems and maintaining efficiency. In Dubai's climate, this is non-negotiable. It involves cleaning coils, replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, clearing condensate drains, and ensuring electrical connections are tight. It's about keeping the unit running as intended.

An AC Repair, on the other hand, is a reactive activity. It's undertaken to fix a specific, identified problem or failure that is preventing the unit from operating correctly or safely. That constant rattling sound you're hearing? That's not "fine." It's a symptom of a fault, likely a loose component, a failing fan motor, or a compromised compressor mount. This is no longer maintenance; it is a repair.

Under the UAE's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is unequivocally responsible for all major repairs related to the property's structure and core systems, which includes the central AC system. Routine maintenance might be stipulated as a tenant responsibility in some contracts, but repairs due to normal wear and tear or inherent faults fall squarely on the landlord.

A persistent rattling noise indicates a mechanical fault that will only worsen, leading to a complete breakdown, potential water damage from vibration-loosened connections, or even a fire hazard. I strongly recommend you formally notify your landlord/property manager in writing, citing the specific issue and duration. If they continue to dismiss it, insist on a professional assessment.

For a definitive, certified report that outlines the exact fault and required remediation—which gives you strong leverage with your landlord—our team can provide a thorough inspection. Don't lose more sleep over this; get it properly diagnosed.

Call 800-MOLDS or email us at hello@saniservice.com for a professional evaluation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 5:55 am