Is my Dubai landlord responsible for AC mold cleanup?« Back to Previous Page

This is a landlord responsibility under Dubai rental law. The AC unit and its associated systems, including drainage, are considered part of the property's essential infrastructure, which the landlord is legally obligated to maintain in good working order.

Notify your landlord in writing immediately, detailing the AC leak and visible mold growth. Include clear photographs as evidence. Under the Dubai Rental Law, they are required to address the malfunctioning AC, which is the source of the problem. The persistent humidity from a leaking unit is a primary cause of mold in Dubai's climate, as the constant condensation provides the perfect environment for growth.

The remediation of the resulting mold is also their responsibility, as it is direct damage caused by the defective fixture they are required to maintain. They must properly fix the leak at its source and address the microbial growth on the walls.

For a case of this nature—where the mold is visible, spreading, and already causing humidity issues—professional assessment is strongly advised. DIY cleaning on porous surfaces like drywall is often ineffective and can disturb spores. A proper remediation involves fixing the moisture source, containing the area, safely removing contaminated materials, and verifying the environment is dry and clean through post-remediation testing. Your landlord should arrange for this. If they are unresponsive, you can file a formal complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.