Is landlord responsible for mold after reported leak?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes all maintenance related to the building's central systems, such as the AC and its drainage. Since you have a documented history of reporting the AC leak, the landlord's responsibility for the resulting mold growth is significantly strengthened. The quick, ineffective fix by a handyman does not absolve them of this obligation; it only demonstrates a failure to adequately address the root cause.

The persistent high humidity and condensation inherent to Dubai's climate act as a catalyst, turning a minor leak into a major mold infestation. The black mold on the wall and clothing indicates a serious contamination that requires professional intervention. DIY cleaning is not advised as it can aerosolize spores and exacerbate health risks and property damage.

Your immediate steps should be: 1) Formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) of the mold growth, referencing your previous reports, and demand immediate, professional remediation. 2) For your health and safety, we strongly recommend a certified mold inspection to assess the full extent of contamination, including within the AC unit and possibly the wall cavity.

Our company, Saniservice, specializes in exactly this scenario. We provide forensic-level mold testing to establish the cause and scope, and CDC-compliant remediation to safely remove the hazard. For immediate assistance, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and obtain a formal report that can be presented to your landlord.