Is landlord responsible for AC mold causing asthma in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom in my Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has been leaking a little, and now we’ve spotted a patch of black mold in the corner behind the wardrobe. My husband’s asthma has been way worse this month, and I’m starting to worry it’s connected. Is getting this tested and cleaned the landlord's responsibility, or is this on me as the tenant to fix?
Posted by Raj Malhotra
Asked on April 17, 2026 6:10 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) and standard tenancy contract stipulations, the landlord is fundamentally responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, which includes the repair and maintenance of the central air conditioning system. A leaking AC unit is a maintenance failure that has led to a dampness issue and subsequent mold growth. This directly impacts the habitability of the property and is therefore the landlord's legal obligation to rectify.

The climate in Dubai, characterized by extreme heat and humidity, creates a perfect environment for mold proliferation when combined with a source of moisture like an AC leak. The black mold you've described is a significant health concern, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma. The timing of your husband's worsened symptoms is a strong indicator of a causal link, as mold spores are a known and potent asthma trigger.

Your immediate course of action should be:
1. Formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the leak and the mold, emphasizing the health impact. Include clear photographs as evidence.
2. Request immediate professional inspection and remediation. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and drastically worsen indoor air quality and health effects.

For a definitive assessment and legally admissible report, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. Our team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the mold species, the extent of contamination, and the precise source of moisture. We provide detailed reports that can be used to ensure the landlord fulfills their obligation for proper remediation.

For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. This is a serious health and safety issue that requires expert attention.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 19, 2026 8:25 am