Am I responsible for AC leak and mold in my rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for major maintenance and structural repairs falls on the landlord. This includes issues with the building's infrastructure, such as the central AC system and the integrity of the walls. The AC leak you describe is a source of moisture intrusion, which is the root cause of the mold growth. Therefore, it is your landlord's obligation to repair the leaking AC unit to stop the moisture problem.

However, as a tenant, you have a responsibility to report any such issues in a timely manner. The fact that the leak has been ongoing for a couple of months should be communicated to the landlord or property manager immediately in writing to establish a record. Simply wiping the mold away is a temporary and ineffective solution; the underlying moisture problem must be resolved.

Given the conditions in Dubai—high humidity and year-round AC use—this situation is common. The persistent musty odor and recurring mold growth are strong indicators of a deeper contamination that may not be visible, possibly within the wall cavity or the AC system itself. This requires professional assessment.

We strongly recommend you insist on a professional mold inspection. DIY cleaning is insufficient and can aggravate spore dispersal. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the full extent of the contamination and provide a remediation protocol for your landlord to action. For immediate advice or to schedule an inspection, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.