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

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle seems to be leaking a bit of water onto the wall, and now I’ve discovered a patch of black mold behind our bedroom wardrobe. It’s been slowly growing since the weather got really humid a couple of months ago. As a tenant, am I responsible for the cleanup and repair costs, or is this something I need to report to the landlord to fix?
Posted by Joseph Walker
Asked on March 20, 2026 7:00 pm
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation and AC repair typically falls upon the landlord, as per the standard tenancy contract and Dubai's rental laws. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes ensuring the structural integrity and proper functioning of all installed systems, such as air conditioning. An AC unit leaking water is a maintenance issue that directly leads to moisture intrusion and subsequent mold growth, a condition the tenant did not create.

The persistent high humidity and year-round reliance on AC in Dubai creates a perfect environment for mold when a moisture source, like a leaking condensate drain line, is present. The black mold you've discovered behind the wardrobe is a direct result of this unresolved leak. As a tenant, your responsibility is to report this issue to the landlord or property management company immediately in writing. Delay can lead to further structural damage and potential health concerns from amplified microbial growth.

For a situation like this, we strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified experts at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the full extent of the mold contamination, identify the precise source of the moisture, and provide a detailed remediation protocol. This documentation is often crucial for landlords to understand the severity and authorize repairs. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination.

For immediate assistance with inspection and a formal report for your landlord, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 23, 2026 8:53 am