Should landlord handle mold inspection for AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental laws, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes fixing leaks from AC units that are part of the building. If the black spots and potential moisture are a result of a faulty AC condensate drain or a leak in the ductwork within the walls, this is typically the landlord's obligation to repair.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue immediately. Include clear photos of the mold and describe your children's symptoms. This creates a documented record of the request. They should arrange for both a repair of the leak and a professional mold inspection. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it should identify the moisture source and the mold species to assess health risks, which is crucial given the persistent coughing.

However, in many tenancy agreements, tenants are responsible for routine maintenance and cleaning of interior AC units, like the filters. The key distinction is the source of the problem: a leak from the internal unit versus a leak from the external system or building structure. Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use make condensation leaks a common issue that can quickly lead to mold if not addressed.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For your family's health, do not attempt to clean extensive mold yourself, especially black mold, as improper disturbance can spread spores. A professional assessment with lab analysis of the mold type is the safest first step to determine the necessary remediation scope.