Is mold treatment a tenant or landlord responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's main structure and essential systems, which includes the central air conditioning unit and the building envelope. Since the mold growth is a direct result of the leaking AC, a fixture they are obligated to maintain, the remediation and repair costs are typically the landlord's responsibility.

Your first step is to formally notify the property manager or landlord in writing about both the AC leak and the resulting mold, including clear photographs. They must arrange for the AC repair. For the mold, a professional inspection is advised to confirm the extent, as hidden growth behind walls is common in Dubai's humid climate. The remediation process itself must address the moisture source first (fixing the leak), then properly remove the contaminated materials and clean the area to prevent recurrence.

As a tenant, your responsibility is to report issues promptly and allow reasonable access for repairs. Document all communication. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For immediate health concerns, consider a professional assessment; a lab test can identify the mold type, which is valuable information for both your health and any necessary legal documentation.