Is my landlord responsible for AC mold in my Dubai villa?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), your landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the villa's structure and its major systems, including the central AC unit and its components. A leaking AC that causes water damage and subsequent mold growth is typically considered a maintenance issue falling under their obligation. You should notify them in writing immediately, detailing the issue and the resulting mold growth.

Given the black, fuzzy growth and its location in a bedroom, a professional inspection is highly recommended. The humid Dubai climate accelerates mold proliferation, and what is visible on the wall surface often indicates a more extensive problem within the wall cavity or AC drip pan. An independent assessment can document the cause, extent, and specific species present, which strengthens your case with the landlord and is critical for health reasons, especially if occupants are experiencing respiratory symptoms.

For your own safety, avoid disturbing the mold or attempting to clean it with bleach, as this can aerosolize spores. The landlord may arrange for a simple repair and cleaning, but if the leak has been ongoing for months, the wall's internal structure may be compromised, requiring more extensive remediation to prevent recurrence. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a formal complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.