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

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking a little, and now there's a huge patch of black mold spreading on the wall and on some of my shoes. I've told my landlord about the leak a few times over the last two months, but he's only sent someone to patch the AC drain pipe, not clean the mold. Am I responsible for paying to remove this mold myself, or is it the landlord's obligation to fix it since the leak was the cause?
Posted by William Miller
Asked on April 4, 2026 11:14 pm
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, the responsibility for major maintenance and structural repairs falls squarely on the landlord. This includes issues with central air conditioning systems, which are considered a fundamental part of the property's provision of basic habitability.

The AC leak is the definitive source of the moisture that caused the mold growth. Since you have documented notifying your landlord of the leak multiple times over two months, you have established a record of the landlord's failure to address the root cause in a timely manner. The landlord's obligation is not just to patch the drain pipe but to remediate the resulting damage, which includes the significant mold contamination on the wall and your affected personal property.

In Dubai's high-humidity climate, mold can proliferate rapidly from a persistent water leak, posing potential health risks and compromising the building's structural integrity. A patch of this size indicates a serious moisture issue that requires professional assessment and remediation. DIY cleaning is not advised for large-scale mold, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination further throughout the property.

You should formally re-notify your landlord in writing, referencing your previous communications and insisting they arrange for professional mold inspection and remediation to address the health hazard their unresolved maintenance issue has created. For an immediate professional assessment to document the extent of the contamination and provide a formal report, you can contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. A certified inspection report can be crucial evidence if the landlord continues to be negligent.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 4:38 pm