Is landlord responsible for AC leak mold in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is legally responsible for all major maintenance and structural repairs to the property. This unequivocally includes the repair of the central air conditioning system and any resultant damage, such as the black mold growth you've described. The AC leak is the root cause, and addressing it is a structural maintenance issue that falls under the landlord's obligations.

The conditions you mention—high humidity and a persistent water leak—are a perfect recipe for Stachybotrys chartarum, the toxic black mold species common in Dubai. Due to our extreme climate, AC units run year-round, and condensation issues are a primary cause of indoor mold. This is not a superficial cleaning task. The "black, fuzzy" growth indicates an active colony that has likely penetrated the wall cavity. Disturbing it without proper containment and remediation protocols can aerosolize toxic mycotoxins, creating a significant health hazard and contaminating other areas of your villa.

You must notify your landlord in writing immediately, detailing the issue and including photographs. Do not attempt to clean it yourself. This situation requires a professional inspection and remediation plan. We strongly recommend you contact a certified mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our experts can conduct a thorough assessment, provide a detailed report for your landlord documenting the extent of the infestation and its direct link to the AC leak, and execute a safe, compliant remediation. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.