Who is responsible for AC leak and mold in rental?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, specifically under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for maintenance is clearly divided. The landlord is unequivocally responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the main building systems, which includes the central air conditioning unit and its associated drainage lines. An AC leak is a failure of this system. The resulting water intrusion and subsequent mold growth are direct consequences of that failure, making the remediation the landlord's financial and legal obligation.

Your attempt to clean it with bleach is a common misconception. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall, as it only bleaches the surface mold while leaving the root structure intact. This is why the growth returns. The persistent moisture from the leak provides the perfect conditions for rapid regrowth, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity which acts as a constant catalyst.

For a situation of this magnitude—a "big black mold patch" that has been spreading for months—professional assessment and remediation are critical. The mold behind the wardrobe indicates significant saturation of the wall, which likely requires not just surface cleaning but controlled demolition, disposal, and reconstruction to ensure the mycotoxins are fully removed and the underlying moisture issue is resolved.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue, citing the AC leak as the cause. I strongly recommend you engage a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice to provide a detailed technical report. This certified report will document the cause (the AC leak), the extent of the damage, and the required remediation protocol, which serves as crucial evidence for your landlord. For immediate expert consultation and to schedule an inspection, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.