Can I deduct rent for landlord's ignored AC leak and mold?« Back to Previous Page

Based on Dubai rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, landlords are obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition and carry out all necessary repairs, especially those affecting health and safety, such as an AC leak leading to mold. You are within your rights to demand an immediate fix.

However, you cannot unilaterally deduct the cost of repairs from your rent. This action could put you in breach of your tenancy contract. The correct procedure is to formally notify the landlord in writing (e.g., registered email) and, if they remain unresponsive, file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. The RDC can compel the landlord to act and may authorize rent withholding or compensation.

Given the scale of the issue, this is a serious health hazard. The black mold indicates a persistent moisture problem from the AC system, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity. Spores can contaminate your HVAC system and belongings, posing respiratory risks.

We strongly recommend a professional mold inspection to assess the full extent of contamination, including inside the AC unit and wall cavity, which is not visible. DIY cleaning is insufficient and can aggravate the problem by dispersing spores. Our certified team at Saniservice uses thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the leak's source and provides a detailed remediation protocol.

For immediate assistance with inspection and a formal report you can present to your landlord, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. A professional report will significantly strengthen your case with the landlord or the RDC.