Is my landlord responsible for black mold under carpet?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a little for a couple of months, but now I’ve pulled back the corner of the carpet and found a huge patch of black mold underneath. I’ve told my landlord about the leak before but they never fixed it properly. Who is responsible for the mold removal and the damaged carpet – me or the landlord?
Posted by Dong Dang
Asked on March 26, 2026 9:14 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract provisions, your landlord is almost certainly responsible for the mold removal and repair of the damaged carpet. The underlying cause is the AC leak, which constitutes a structural or maintenance issue with the property itself. As you have a documented history of notifying them about the leak, their failure to address it in a timely manner has directly led to the mold growth, solidifying their liability.

The Dubai climate, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC systems, makes such leaks a serious concern. Persistent moisture from a faulty AC unit creates the perfect environment for mold, especially in concealed spaces like under carpets. The black mold you've discovered is a significant health hazard and indicates a prolonged moisture problem.

For a case of this magnitude, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. DIY removal is not advised, as disturbing the mold can aerosolize spores and contaminate the entire room. A certified mold inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, create a detailed scope of work for remediation, and provide a formal report. This report is crucial evidence for your landlord, demonstrating the severity of the issue and the required professional solution.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing, referencing your previous complaints, and insist they arrange for professional remediation immediately. For expert inspection, testing, and certified mold remediation, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They are specialists in dealing with such scenarios in the UAE. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com to get a professional assessment and resolution.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 6:36 am