Is landlord responsible for mold from AC vent?« Back to Previous Page

Landlord responsibility for mold from AC vents in Dubai is generally determined by the cause. Under UAE tenancy law, landlords must maintain the property's structure and major systems, including the central AC and building envelope. If the mold is caused by a leak in the building's roof, walls, or the AC unit itself, it is likely the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

However, tenant obligations include routine maintenance, such as changing AC filters and ensuring proper ventilation to manage humidity. The extreme humidity here, especially in summer, means condensation is a constant battle. If the mold growth is due to a lack of this basic upkeep, you may be liable for the cleanup.

Given the location—spreading from the ceiling corner above the vent—this strongly suggests an underlying issue like a condensate drain line blockage or a leak in the ductwork, which falls under the landlord's purview. Document the issue thoroughly with photos and immediately notify the landlord or property management company in writing. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the moisture source; a surface clean alone is insufficient.

For your health concerns, persistent allergies are a common indicator. A proper remediation process should include fixing the leak, removing the contaminated materials, and cleaning the air ducts to prevent spores from recirculating. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.