Who pays for mold from AC: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, the landlord is generally responsible for fixing mold issues stemming from a structural or maintenance problem with the AC unit itself, like a faulty drain pipe or a leaking condensation pan. This is considered a maintenance defect of the property. Your first step is to notify the landlord or property management company in writing immediately, including clear photographs of the mold and its location relative to the AC.

However, if the mold growth is determined to be a direct result of tenant negligence—such as consistently failing to run the AC, which is essential for humidity control in Dubai, or blocking vents—the cost of remediation could fall to you. The high humidity here, especially in summer, means AC systems must operate regularly to remove moisture from the air; when they are off, condensation builds up rapidly and creates the perfect environment for mold.

Given that the mold is spreading from the AC unit and worsened with recent humidity, the source is likely a maintenance issue. For a definitive cause, a professional inspection is advised to identify if the AC drain is clogged or if there's an insulation problem. This documented assessment from a certified provider is the strongest evidence for determining responsibility with your landlord.