Is my landlord responsible for AC leak mold?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now I'm seeing these dark black spots spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. I've been feeling more congested than usual, especially in the mornings. I rent an apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle, and I'm not sure if this is something I should fix myself or if I need to get my landlord involved. Who is legally responsible for treating black mold caused by an AC leak in a rental, the tenant or the landlord, and what's the first step I should take?
Posted by Lin Sun
Asked on March 29, 2026 7:28 pm
Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes the structural integrity of the building and the proper functioning of all essential fixtures, such as the air conditioning system. Since the black mold growth is a direct result of a pre-existing AC leak, which constitutes a maintenance failure, the responsibility for remediation falls squarely on your landlord.

The first step you must take is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing. Detail the issue: the persistent AC leak and the subsequent visible black mold growth. It is crucial to provide photographic evidence and mention your health symptoms, like morning congestion, which are consistent with mold exposure. Do not attempt to remediate this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and significantly worsen the contamination.

Given Dubai's high humidity and year-round reliance on AC, what appears as a small leak can indicate a larger issue within the condensate drain line or drip pan, leading to extensive hidden mold growth inside the wall cavity. This requires professional assessment and remediation. We strongly recommend you insist that your landlord engages a certified mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the full extent of the problem and perform remediation according to IICRC standards, ensuring the mold is removed safely and the root-cause leak is fixed.

For immediate assistance and to have our team coordinate directly with your landlord, please call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 2:12 pm