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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from an AC leak is typically determined by the source of the moisture. According to standard tenancy contract interpretations and Dubai Municipality guidelines, the landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the building's structure and fixed installations, which includes the central AC system and the building envelope.

The scenario you describe—mold growth adjacent to an AC unit with a known humidity issue—strongly suggests the problem originates from a leak in the condensate drain line or a faulty installation of the AC unit itself. This is a very common issue in Dubai due to the year-round AC operation and high humidity levels, which cause significant condensation. Since the AC unit is a fixed installation, the financial responsibility for repairing the leak and the subsequent professional mold remediation required to safely remove the contamination likely falls on your landlord.

However, you must formally notify them in writing of the issue immediately. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination throughout your apartment. The underlying moisture issue must be resolved first; otherwise, the mold will simply return.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to definitively identify the moisture source and assess the full extent of the mold growth, which is often more widespread than it initially appears. This documented report is also crucial for communicating with your landlord. For immediate assistance with inspection and certified remediation, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our certified technicians can provide a comprehensive assessment and work directly with property management to resolve the issue correctly.