Who pays for mold inspection from AC leak in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for maintenance and repairs is typically determined by the nature of the defect.

The AC unit itself, as a fixture provided by the landlord, is generally their responsibility to maintain and repair. A persistent leak constitutes a maintenance issue related to the property's core systems. The resulting water damage and mold growth are a direct consequence of this unresolved leak. Therefore, the legal onus to rectify the root cause—the leaking AC—and address the resultant damage, including arranging and paying for a professional mold inspection, falls on the landlord.

However, the landlord may argue that tenant misuse caused the leak. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and year-round AC dependence, condensation management is key. If the leak was due to a clogged drain line from lack of tenant maintenance (e.g., not changing filters), liability could shift. But a leak from the unit's internal mechanisms is a landlord issue.

Given the visible black spot, this is a serious case. The mold is likely not only on the wall surface but also within the wall cavity and carpet padding due to prolonged moisture. A professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of contamination and identify the moisture source definitively.

We strongly recommend you insist on a certified mold inspection from a company like Saniservice. Our experts use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the leak's origin and conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and concentration, providing an objective report that definitively establishes liability. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment.