Who is responsible for AC mold in a rental unit?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai and the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental unit is primarily governed by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'. Typically, structural issues and maintenance of central air conditioning systems, including leaks that lead to mold, are the landlord's legal responsibility. Your landlord's claim that insufficient AC use caused the problem is often incorrect. The UAE's high humidity and constant AC operation can actually cause condensation if the unit's drain line is clogged or the drip pan is faulty, which are maintenance issues.

The black, fuzzy growth you describe is a serious concern, likely Stachybotrys chartarum (true black mold), which produces mycotoxins and requires professional remediation. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it will aerosolize harmful spores.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord in writing about the leak and mold, requesting immediate professional inspection and remediation. If they are uncooperative, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.

Given the potential health risks and the technical nature of identifying the moisture source and mold species, a professional assessment is critical. We recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. We conduct comprehensive inspections, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the exact cause and provide a legally compliant remediation report. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate assessment.