Who pays for mold removal in a rental, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai rentals, the landlord is typically responsible for structural issues and maintenance of permanent fixtures like AC units, while tenants are responsible for damages caused by negligence. Mold caused by a leaking AC unit, which is part of the property's fixed systems, is almost always the landlord's responsibility to remediate. Their claim that "running the AC too much" caused the leak is not legally sound; AC systems are designed for constant use in this climate.

The high humidity here accelerates mold growth from any water intrusion, making prompt professional remediation critical. Document the issue thoroughly with dated photos and send a written notification to the landlord or property management company, citing the defect. For a spreading black mold patch, a certified inspection is strongly advised to identify the exact species and full extent of contamination, as this directly impacts the remediation method required.

If the landlord remains uncooperative, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC) in Dubai. They will review the tenancy contract and the cause of the damage. Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination further throughout your apartment.