Landlord responsible for mold from leaking AC in closet?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is typically responsible for the maintenance of the property's core structure and essential services, including the central air conditioning system and its associated components. A leaking AC unit falls squarely under the landlord's obligation to provide a habitable dwelling. The assertion that insufficient AC use caused the leak is a common misconception here in Dubai. Our extreme humidity and high ambient temperatures mean AC systems are under constant strain. The primary cause of such leaks is often a blocked or damaged condensate drain line, a faulty drain pan, or improper installation—all of which are maintenance issues for the property owner.

The resulting black mold is a serious health and safety concern that stems from their failure to address the water intrusion. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) of the issue, referencing the leak and the visible mold growth, and request immediate remediation. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the contamination.

For a case of this severity, a professional inspection and remediation is critical. We recommend contacting Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com. Our certified technicians can conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the full extent of the mold contamination, identify the precise cause of the AC leak, and provide a detailed report. This professional documentation is invaluable if a dispute with the landlord escalates and needs to be presented to the Rental Dispute Settlement Committee in Dubai. The cost for remediation and repairs to the wall should be borne by the landlord.