Black mold from AC leak: landlord or tenant responsible?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 and its amendments, the responsibility for structural repairs and maintenance of essential services like the air conditioning system falls squarely on the landlord. An AC unit leaking water is a maintenance issue pertaining to the property's core systems, not a result of tenant misuse. Therefore, your landlord is legally obligated to repair the leaking AC unit to prevent further damage.

However, the situation becomes more nuanced with the resulting mold. While the landlord must fix the source of the moisture, the tenant is generally responsible for informing the landlord of the issue in a timely manner and for maintaining a reasonable level of cleanliness to prevent conditions that exacerbate mold growth. Since you have identified the leak as the cause and have notified the landlord, the responsibility for the mold remediation should be negotiated. The landlord's insurance may cover the damage, but this depends on the specific terms of your tenancy contract.

Given the climate in Dubai, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC, mold can spread rapidly behind walls, posing potential health risks and compromising building materials. A small visible patch often indicates a larger hidden problem. We strongly recommend you immediately notify your landlord in writing and request a professional mold inspection.

As a certified mold remediation specialist, I must stress that improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread contamination. For a proper assessment and a definitive remediation plan, our team at Saniservice can conduct a thorough inspection, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the full extent of the damage and provide a report that clearly outlines the cause and necessary corrective actions. This report is invaluable for discussions with your landlord regarding responsibility and payment.

For immediate advice and to schedule a professional inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.