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

Based on UAE Civil Code and the specific rental laws in Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from an AC leak is typically placed on the landlord or building management. The core issue is identifying the source of the moisture. If the mold is a direct result of a malfunctioning or leaking AC unit, which is considered a structural fixture, the landlord is legally obligated to repair the unit and address the resultant damage, including mold remediation.

Your landlord's claim about improper ventilation, while a general good practice, is unlikely to absolve them of responsibility in this scenario. The brutal Dubai summer humidity and year-round AC use create a high condensation risk, but the primary failure is the equipment itself. You, as a tenant, are responsible for general upkeep and reporting issues in a timely manner, which you have done.

For a definitive resolution, a professional inspection is critical. A certified mold inspector can identify the exact species of mold (e.g., the notorious Stachybotrys chartarum, or "black mold") and, most importantly, use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to irrefutably link the microbial growth to the AC leak. This technical report serves as crucial evidence for your landlord and, if necessary, for filing a case with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.

Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, especially from porous materials like drywall, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the contamination. For a professional assessment and a legally defensible report, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We can provide the documentation needed to ensure the responsible party addresses this health and safety issue correctly.