Is landlord responsible for AC mold cleanup with toddler?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai tenancy law, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its major systems, which includes the central AC unit and any resulting water damage or mold from its failure. Since the mold growth is a direct result of a leaking AC unit, the responsibility for the repair and the subsequent cleanup of the damage typically falls on the landlord.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, including clear photos of the leak and the mold. They are obligated to address the root cause—fixing the AC drain line or unit—to prevent further damage. For the existing mold, a professional inspection is strongly advised, especially with a toddler. A specialist can assess the extent of growth, identify the species to determine risk level, and confirm the cleanup was successful with post-remediation verification, which often involves lab analysis of surface or air samples.

While landlords handle structural repairs, the law is less clear on the contents of routine AC maintenance, which can sometimes fall to the tenant as per the contract. However, a persistent leak causing property damage shifts the responsibility. Given Dubai's high humidity, which accelerates mold growth from condensation issues, prompt action is critical to protect indoor air quality and your family's health. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper methods can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.