Is landlord or tenant responsible for mold from AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold remediation in this case hinges on the source of the leak, which is almost certainly the AC unit's condensate drain line. Under standard Dubai rental law (RERA), structural elements and essential utilities like the AC system are typically the landlord's responsibility to maintain and repair.

Your landlord's claim that you failed to maintain the AC is likely invalid. Basic tenant maintenance involves cleaning or replacing filters. The internal condensate drain line, which is prone to clogging from microbial growth in our humid climate, is a mechanical part of the unit itself. A persistent leak from a blocked drain is a repair issue, not a maintenance oversight by the tenant.

Document everything: take clear photos and videos of the leak source (if accessible), the mold growth, and all communication with the landlord. The mold is a direct result of a maintenance failure of the provided appliance. Politely reiterate to the landlord that the repair of the AC unit and the resulting mold remediation are their obligation to restore the property to a habitable condition. For a significant patch of mold, a professional inspection is wise to assess the extent, as spores can spread behind walls. If the landlord remains uncooperative, you may need to open a case with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will require your documented evidence to make a determination.