Who is responsible for mold caused by a faulty AC?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is generally responsible for repairing the AC unit itself, but tenant responsibilities for resulting mold can be less clear-cut. In Dubai, tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007) obligates landlords to maintain the property's structure and major systems, including AC, in good condition. If the mold is a direct result of a malfunctioning air conditioner that is not properly removing humidity, the repair obligation typically falls on the landlord.

However, your responsibility as a tenant is to report the issue immediately and in writing. Document the mold growth with clear photos and dates and formally notify the landlord or property management company about the faulty AC and the subsequent mold. If you fail to report a maintenance issue in a timely manner and the problem worsens, liability could shift.

Given the climate, constant AC operation is necessary, and a faulty unit will not remove moisture from the air, leading to condensation and mold on cold surfaces like walls and inside closets. For a verifiable cause, a professional inspection can determine if the AC's condensate drain is blocked, the unit is undersized, or there is another mechanical failure. This documented evidence is crucial for establishing landlord responsibility. In many cases, resolving the root cause (the AC) and a professional mold remediation are needed to properly address the problem.