Who is responsible for mold removal from an AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold removal due to an AC leak typically falls on the property owner or landlord, not the tenant. In Dubai, the standard tenancy contract usually obligates the landlord to maintain the property's structure and major systems, including the central AC and its components. A persistent leak is a maintenance issue they are generally responsible for addressing.

Your landlord's claim that delayed reporting makes it your responsibility is not typically supported by the law. While you should report issues promptly, the underlying cause—a faulty AC unit—is their responsibility to fix. The extreme humidity here accelerates mold growth from any moisture, and remediation requires fixing the source leak first.

For a widespread issue like black spots spreading behind furniture, a professional inspection is critical to assess the extent. Surface cleaning is insufficient if mold has penetrated the wall. Document the leak and mold growth with photos and continue formal communication with your landlord. If they remain uncooperative, you may need to escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC) for a resolution. The RDC commonly interprets such cases in favor of tenants when the issue pertains to the property's fundamental condition.