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

Based on UAE tenancy law and common lease agreements, the responsibility for this mold issue is typically split, but the primary burden falls on your landlord for the structural damage.

The ongoing AC leak, which is the source of the moisture, is likely your responsibility as a tenant for general maintenance and filter cleaning. However, the resulting water damage to the building's structure—the saturated subfloor, damaged floorboards, and the significant microbial growth—constitutes damage to the property itself. This is the landlord's legal responsibility to repair under Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. The landlord is obligated to maintain the property's condition and undertake necessary repairs for any damage not caused by tenant misuse.

The black mold you describe is a serious health and safety concern. In Dubai's high humidity climate, AC condensation leaks are a frequent cause of hidden mold growth within walls and under floors, which can rapidly colonize and compromise indoor air quality.

You must inform your landlord in writing immediately, detailing the issue and requesting urgent remediation. We strongly recommend you do not attempt to handle this yourself, as disturbing the mold can release a high concentration of spores. This situation requires a professional mold inspection to assess the full extent of the contamination, identify the mold species, and prescribe the correct remediation protocol, which includes containment, hygienization of the area, and repairing the source of the moisture.

For a certified assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled safely and effectively, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.