Who is responsible for black mold from AC in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been dripping a little, and now I've found a patch of black mold on the back wall of the wardrobe that shares the same wall. My landlord says it's due to my lack of ventilation, but I run the AC constantly and the wardrobe is always closed. Who is legally responsible for fixing this and the cost of remediation here in Dubai?
Posted by Brittany Moore
Asked on April 5, 2026 7:34 pm
Based on the specific conditions you've described, the responsibility for the black mold remediation and fixing the underlying issue very likely falls upon your landlord, not you.

The core issue is a leaking AC unit, which is a structural maintenance problem pertaining to the property itself. According to common tenancy law practices in Dubai (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure, including the central AC system and the building envelope. Your description of the AC "dripping a little" points directly to a fault in the AC's drainage system or installation, which has led to moisture intrusion into the wall cavity. This is the primary cause of the mold growth.

While landlords may sometimes argue that tenant behavior (like lack of ventilation) causes condensation, your constant use of the AC should, in fact, be dehumidifying the air. The wardrobe being closed is irrelevant if the moisture source is a leak from inside the wall. The Dubai climate, with its extreme humidity, makes properties highly susceptible to mold when even minor water leaks are present.

For a definitive resolution, you must get a professional inspection. A certified mold assessor can identify the exact moisture source and provide a report detailing the cause. This report is crucial evidence for formally requesting your landlord to address both the AC repair and the professional mold remediation. Attempting to clean it yourself is not advised, as black mold can be hazardous, and improper removal will only cause it to return.

For a professional inspection and conclusive remediation report to present to your landlord, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They are experts in dealing with precisely these types of moisture and mold issues in Dubai's climate. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 7, 2026 3:25 pm