Is black mold from AC leak my landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under the UAE Civil Code and Dubai rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for maintaining the property's structural integrity and habitability falls squarely on the landlord. This explicitly includes the maintenance and repair of all central air conditioning systems, which are considered a fundamental part of the property, especially given our climate. The subsequent water leakage and the resulting mold growth are a direct consequence of this unattended AC fault.

The black mold you've discovered (Stachybotrys chartarum or similar) is a serious biohazard, indicative of a long-standing moisture issue. The high humidity in Al Barsha acts as a constant accelerant, allowing mold to proliferate rapidly within wall cavities and sub-flooring, far beyond the visible patch. This is not a simple cleaning job; it requires professional mold remediation to address the root cause, contain the spores during removal, and ensure the underlying structure is properly dried and treated to prevent recurrence.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail), detailing the issue and including photographic evidence. Clearly state that the mold is a health risk and a direct result of the unrepaired AC leak previously reported. Demand immediate professional assessment and remediation.

For a situation of this severity, we strongly recommend a certified mold inspection to determine the full extent of the contamination. Our teams at Saniservice are equipped with specialized tools like borescopes and moisture meters to assess hidden damage and provide a definitive report, which can be crucial for discussions with your landlord. Do not attempt to remove this yourself, as improper handling will aerosolize the spores and spread the contamination. For immediate assistance, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.