Who is responsible for AC mold in my rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit onto the carpet for a while, but I just pulled back the corner and found a big patch of black mold underneath. I've been renting this apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle for over a year. My landlord is saying it's my fault for not reporting the leak sooner, but shouldn't the AC maintenance be their responsibility? Who is legally obligated to pay for the mold remediation and the carpet replacement?
Posted by Pallavi Saxena
Asked on April 9, 2026 10:50 am
Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, including the air conditioning system. The AC unit is considered a core part of the property, especially in Dubai's climate where it is a necessity year-round. The landlord's obligation to provide a habitable dwelling includes ensuring the AC is functioning correctly and not causing secondary damage, such as leaks that lead to mold growth.

While you have a duty to report issues promptly, the underlying cause—the leaking AC—is the landlord's responsibility to repair. The resulting mold infestation and damaged carpet are a direct consequence of that maintenance failure. It is not typical for a tenant to be held liable for damage caused by a structural or mechanical defect they did not create.

Given the discovery of a significant black mold patch, professional assessment is critical. Mold hidden under carpets can indicate a larger colony within the underlay and potentially the subfloor. In Dubai's high humidity, this can proliferate rapidly and pose health risks.

I strongly recommend you formally request, in writing, that the landlord arranges for a professional mold inspection and remediation. Our company, Saniservice, specializes in this exact scenario. Our certified inspectors can identify the full extent of the contamination, determine the moisture source, and provide a detailed report that can be used to formally establish liability. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Do not attempt to disturb the mold yourself, as this can release harmful spores into your living environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 10, 2026 11:33 am