Who is responsible for mold from a leaking AC?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah seems to be leaking into the wall, and now there's a huge patch of black mold spreading behind the bedroom wardrobe. I wiped it down, but it came back worse within a week and the dampness is making the whole room smell. My landlord is saying it's maintenance's problem, but maintenance says it's the landlord's responsibility to fix the source of the leak. Who is legally responsible for the mold remediation and fixing the AC unit in a rental?
Posted by James Williams
Asked on March 23, 2026 11:33 am
In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from a leaking AC unit is primarily determined by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. This law clearly delineates responsibilities: the landlord is obligated to maintain the property's structure and ensure it is habitable, which includes addressing the source of any water intrusion or leak that compromises the building's integrity. The AC unit, being a fixture and a critical system for habitability in our climate, typically falls under the landlord's responsibility to repair if the leak is due to the unit's installation, internal components, or the building's plumbing connected to it.

However, if the leak and subsequent mold growth are a direct result of tenant negligence, such as a failure to report a minor issue that then escalated, the responsibility could shift. Merely wiping the mold is insufficient and can exacerbate the problem by spreading spores. The persistent dampness and rapid regrowth you describe indicate a significant ongoing moisture source that must be addressed at its origin.

Given the high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai, this situation requires immediate professional intervention. The mold behind the wardrobe is a symptom; the disease is the unchecked water leak. I strongly recommend a certified mold inspection to identify the exact species (e.g., the dangerous Stachybotrys, or "black mold") and the full extent of contamination, which often spreads inside wall cavities. This professional report will also serve as crucial documentation for your landlord.

For a definitive resolution to both the leak and the hazardous mold, you should engage a specialist remediation company. I recommend contacting Saniservice for a comprehensive inspection and remediation plan. They can be reached at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com. Present their findings to your landlord to formally rectify this health and safety issue.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 8:31 pm