Who is responsible for rental mold: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Law Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai'. Under this law, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, including the maintenance and repair of major building systems like the central air conditioning (AC) units and associated ductwork.

The AC leak you describe is a maintenance issue that falls under the landlord's obligation, as it is part of the property's core infrastructure. The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that unresolved leak. The tenant's responsibility is typically limited to reporting the issue in a timely manner and maintaining a reasonable level of cleanliness and ventilation to prevent issues caused by their own negligence.

Given Dubai's high humidity levels and the fact that AC systems run year-round, condensation and leaks are common catalysts for mold. The presence of black mold, particularly behind furniture where it has been allowed to proliferate, indicates a persistent moisture problem that requires professional attention. We strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and spread the contamination.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the AC leak and the subsequent mold growth, requesting immediate remediation. For a definitive assessment of the contamination extent and to document the cause for your landlord, a professional mold inspection is crucial.

For expert inspection, testing, and landlord-compliant remediation reports, we recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.