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

In the UAE, the legal responsibility for repairs, including those stemming from AC leaks and subsequent mold growth, typically falls upon the landlord or property owner, as stipulated in standard tenancy contract clauses and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended). The landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and the functionality of its core systems, which includes the central AC system and its associated drainage. The persistent dampness you describe is a clear indicator of a building envelope or mechanical system failure, not a minor maintenance issue.

The appearance of a significant black mold patch (Stachybotrys chartarum is a common concern in such scenarios) is a serious health and safety matter, especially given your wife's exacerbated allergies. The high humidity and constant AC operation in Dubai's climate create a perfect environment for rapid mold proliferation if a moisture source is present.

Your immediate course of action should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and its health impact, and request immediate remediation. It is highly advisable to engage a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our certified experts can conduct a thorough assessment to identify the exact source of the moisture intrusion, perform air and surface sampling to speciate the mold and determine spore count levels, and provide a detailed report with a scope of work for remediation. This objective, third-party report is a powerful document to ensure the landlord addresses the problem correctly and completely, as improper cleaning can exacerbate spore dispersal.

For immediate assistance with inspection and a legally defensible report, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt to remove large patches of black mold yourself, as this can be hazardous.