Is landlord responsible for black mold in AC?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural parts and permanent fixtures of a property, which includes the central air conditioning system. This obligation covers the internal ductwork and the unit itself, not just the replaceable filters. Changing filters every three months is proper tenant maintenance; the growth of black mold inside the sealed unit is typically due to underlying issues like internal condensation or drainage problems, which are the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

The high humidity and year-round AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold inside systems if they are not properly maintained. Your description of coughing and visible black mold indicates a serious issue that requires professional assessment. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it should include air and surface sampling to identify the mold type and concentration, as some species can cause significant respiratory irritation.

For resolution, first notify your landlord in writing, citing your regular filter changes and the visible mold inside the unit. If they refuse to act, you can file a formal complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will often side with the tenant on matters of health and habitability. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as this can disturb spores and worsen air quality. A professional remediation company can handle the cleaning and provide the necessary documentation to prove the issue has been resolved to a safe standard.