Who is responsible for mold inspection from AC in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for arranging and paying for a mold inspection typically falls on the landlord in Dubai. Under the Dubai Rental Law, landlords are obligated to provide a property that is habitable and maintained in good condition. This includes addressing issues like mold, which is often a direct result of a building or maintenance defect, such as a leaking AC condensation drain pipe or inadequate insulation causing humidity buildup.

Your situation in Jumeirah Village Circle, with a damp smell and visible black spots near the vent, strongly suggests AC-related mold growth. This is common in Dubai's climate, where year-round AC use leads to significant condensation. While landlords are responsible for the structure and fixed systems like AC units, the process usually requires you, the tenant, to formally notify them of the issue in writing. Provide clear photos of the black spots and a description of the smell.

If the landlord dismisses your concern, you can request a professional inspection to determine the cause. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it includes moisture mapping and often air or surface sampling to identify the mold type and concentration. This scientific evidence is crucial for establishing the severity of the problem. If the landlord continues to be uncooperative, you can file a case with the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) in Dubai, presenting your documented communication and any professional report you've obtained. For health reasons, given the symptoms you've described, proceeding with a certified inspection is a prudent step to protect your indoor air quality.