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

Based on UAE Civil Code and the standard rental contract terms in Dubai, the responsibility for maintenance of the property's core systems, including the central air conditioning unit and its associated ducting, falls squarely on the landlord. This is considered a major fixture of the property.

Your situation is a classic example of a maintenance issue leading to secondary damage. While you are correct that the AC unit is the landlord's property, tenants have a duty to report any issues in a timely manner to prevent further damage. A "couple of months" could be argued as a failure to mitigate damage. However, the primary cause—the leak—is the landlord's responsibility to fix.

The Dubai climate is a major aggravating factor. High humidity and year-round AC use mean any small leak creates a perfect environment for rapid mold proliferation. The black mold you describe behind the wardrobe is a serious concern and requires professional assessment. Certain types of black mold (like Stachybotrys chartarum) can produce mycotoxins and pose health risks.

I strongly recommend you immediately request a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can determine the extent of the contamination, identify the mold species, and provide a detailed report outlining the cause and the necessary remediation protocol. This report is crucial evidence for negotiating responsibility with your landlord.

For a situation of this severity, do not attempt remediation yourself. Improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination. Contact our experts at Saniservice. We can provide a definitive inspection, legal-grade documentation, and a safe, effective remediation solution. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.