Who pays for AC leak and mold repair in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be leaking water into the wall behind it in the living room, and now there's a large patch of black mold spreading from the corner. I've been renting this Jumeirah Lakes Towers apartment for a year and just spotted it when moving the furniture. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for the mold inspection and remediation here, me or the landlord?
Posted by Carlos Ricci
Asked on April 2, 2026 2:45 am
Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007 and its amendments, the responsibility for structural maintenance and repairs falls on the landlord. This includes the building's central air conditioning system and any resultant damage from its failure, such as water leaks leading to mold growth. As a tenant in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, you are responsible for reporting this issue to your landlord or property management company immediately in writing, as delayed reporting could inadvertently make you liable for exacerbated damage.

The persistent humidity and condensation inherent to Dubai's climate create an ideal environment for rapid mold proliferation, especially when an AC unit malfunctions and introduces excess moisture into building materials. The black mold you describe indicates a significant and active colonization that requires immediate professional attention.

We strongly advise against attempting to assess or remediate this yourself. Disturbing the mold can aerosolize spores, creating a health hazard and contaminating other areas of your apartment. A certified mold inspection is crucial to determine the full extent of the contamination within the wall cavity, identify the exact species of mold (which informs the remediation protocol), and provide a definitive report for the landlord.

For a comprehensive inspection and a detailed report that clearly outlines liability and the necessary remediation steps, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a assessment. We will document the source (the AC leak) and the damage, providing you with the professional evidence needed to ensure the landlord addresses and funds the complete repair and remediation process.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 9:41 pm