Is mold in my AC the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the signs you're describing – a persistent damp, musty odor from the AC vent and visible black speckles – it is highly probable that you are dealing with microbial growth, likely mold, within the AC system. This is a common issue in the UAE, especially in coastal areas like Dubai Marina, where high humidity levels provide the perfect environment for mold proliferation inside AC units, particularly in the evaporator coils and drip pans.

Regarding responsibility, the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) typically places the maintenance and repair of major building systems, including central air conditioning units, on the landlord. As a tenant, you are responsible for general cleanliness and reporting issues promptly, which you are doing. The landlord is generally obligated to ensure the property is habitable and that essential services like AC are in good working order.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue. They should arrange for a professional inspection. We strongly advise against attempting to clean it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and worsen contamination.

For a definitive diagnosis and remediation plan, a certified mold inspection is crucial. Our technicians can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and extent of the contamination, providing a report that can be used to ensure the landlord addresses it properly.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you may need to escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC).

For an immediate professional assessment, you can call us at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, or email hello@saniservice.com.