Is landlord responsible for AC leak mold in Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in my bedroom in my Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment has been leaking a bit, and now I’ve spotted a patch of black mold on the wall behind the wardrobe. It’s been slowly getting bigger since the last humid spell a couple of weeks ago. I’ve told my landlord, but he says it’s from my AC usage and that I’m responsible for the cleaning and repainting. Is the landlord legally required to fix this, or is this actually my problem as the tenant?
Posted by Akira Jung
Asked on March 29, 2026 9:56 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code and the standard Ejari tenancy contract, the responsibility for maintenance of the core structure and fixed installations of the property, including the central air conditioning system, lies with the landlord. The AC leak you've described is a maintenance issue of the unit itself, which the landlord is legally obligated to rectify. The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that leak.

The climate in Dubai, with its high humidity and year-round reliance on AC, creates a perfect environment for mold proliferation when a moisture source like a leak is present. The black patch behind the wardrobe is a clear indicator of a persistent dampness issue that requires professional attention. Simply cleaning and repainting the visible spot is a temporary and insufficient solution; the root cause—the AC leak—must be fixed first, followed by proper mold remediation to prevent regrowth and potential health risks.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your interests, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can identify the exact species of mold, determine the full extent of the contamination (which is often more widespread than what is visible), and provide a detailed report. This report is crucial evidence to formally present to your landlord, demonstrating that the issue is structural and requires professional remediation, not superficial cleaning.

For immediate assistance with inspection and testing, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment and obtain the necessary documentation for your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 5:20 pm