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

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the landlord is typically responsible for the maintenance of the property's core structural elements and permanent fixtures, which explicitly includes the central air conditioning system and the building's infrastructure that prevents water ingress.

The AC leak is the primary cause of the mold growth. Mold is a direct consequence of uncontrolled moisture, and in this case, the malfunctioning AC unit is the moisture source. Your landlord's claim that the contents of the closet are the cause is a common misconception. While poor ventilation can exacerbate a problem, it does not cause one. The root issue is the mechanical failure of the AC, which is unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to repair.

In Dubai's climate, with extreme humidity and year-round AC reliance, such leaks must be addressed immediately to prevent rapid mold proliferation, which can pose health risks and damage property. Simply wiping the mold is a temporary and ineffective solution; the hidden microbial contamination within the wall cavity and the ongoing moisture source mean it will always return.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing of the AC leak and resultant mold, requesting immediate professional remediation. For a case like this, a certified mold inspection is crucial to assess the full extent of the contamination and to legally document the cause and required scope of work.

For professional assessment and remediation that meets Dubai Municipality standards, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. We can provide a detailed report to substantiate your claim to the landlord. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance.