Is landlord responsible for mold-related health costs?« Back to Previous Page

A landlord's responsibility for mold-related health costs depends on the source of the problem. Under UAE tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and major systems, including the AC and its drainage. A leaking AC unit that causes mold growth is typically a maintenance issue the landlord must rectify.

Health costs are more complex. While the landlord is obligated to fix the leak and the resulting damage (the mold remediation and wall repair), direct medical expenses for your husband's symptoms generally remain a personal responsibility. You should first notify the landlord in writing about the leak and the mold, as this formally documents the issue and triggers their obligation to act.

Given Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use, a slow leak creates a perfect environment for mold. The constant stuffy nose and headaches are common reactions to mold exposure. For your health and to substantiate the claim, a professional indoor environmental assessment is crucial. It will identify the mold species and confirm the AC as the moisture source, which is key evidence for your landlord. If the landlord refuses to address the root cause, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai.