Is landlord responsible for AC leak mold and carpet damage?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes the central AC system and its components. If an AC leak from a faulty unit caused the mold and carpet damage, the remediation and replacement costs typically fall on the landlord.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the leak and the mold damage. Emphasize that this is a health and safety issue. The high humidity in Dubai accelerates mold growth from any moisture source, and hidden growth under carpets is a serious concern that requires professional assessment.

While the landlord handles the AC repair, the responsibility for mold remediation can be less clear-cut. It depends on whether the leak was reported in a timely manner. Since you've noted the leak has persisted for months, document all previous communications. If you have none, notify them immediately.

For a patch of significant size, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Disturbing it can release spores. A professional inspection is crucial to determine the extent of the growth, even under the slab, and to provide a verified report for the landlord. This documentation is often necessary to compel action. The carpet replacement should be covered as it is a direct result of the landlord's maintenance failure. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai.