AC leak causing mold: landlord or tenant responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit, and now I'm seeing black spots spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. It's been getting worse over the last few weeks, and the whole room just feels damp. My tenancy contract is a bit unclear about this. Am I responsible for getting a mold inspection done myself, or is this something I need to report to the landlord to handle?
Posted by Nancy Taylor
Asked on March 13, 2026 7:48 pm
Based on the Dubai Landlord and Tenant Law (Law No. 26 of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008), the responsibility for maintenance of the property's core structure and installed systems, such as the central air conditioning, falls upon the landlord. An AC leak is a failure of a provided fixture, and the resulting water damage and mold growth are direct consequences of that failure. Therefore, this is a matter you must formally report to your landlord or property management company immediately.

The black spots you describe are highly indicative of active mold colonization, likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger, both common in Dubai's humid climate due to constant AC use and condensation issues. The persistent dampness behind the wardrobe creates a perfect microenvironment for proliferation. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize harmful mycotoxins and spores, exacerbating the indoor air quality issue and potential health risks.

You need a professional mold inspection to determine the full extent of the contamination, including within the wall cavity and the AC unit itself. The inspection will include moisture mapping, thermal imaging, and air/surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, which is critical for planning an effective remediation protocol.

For a comprehensive assessment and a report that can be presented to your landlord, contact our certified specialists at Saniservice. We provide detailed findings that clearly outline the cause and necessary corrective actions, which is essential for tenancy disputes. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 15, 2026 1:12 pm