Is mold cleanup my responsibility as a tenant?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental laws, the responsibility for structural repairs, including those stemming from AC leaks and the resulting mold, typically falls on the landlord or building management, not the tenant. Your tenancy contract is the primary document that outlines responsibilities, but the general principle is that the property owner must maintain the structure in a habitable condition.

Given the visible black spots and your child's persistent respiratory symptoms, this is a serious case that requires immediate action. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create ideal conditions for mold to thrive, especially from a leaking unit. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the leak and the mold growth, including clear photographs. Request that they arrange for both the repair of the AC leak and a professional mold inspection to assess the extent of the problem and the health risk.

A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it should include moisture mapping and often air or surface sampling to identify the mold species, which is crucial for understanding potential health impacts and planning the remediation. Do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize spores and worsen the air quality. Your priority is to stop the moisture source and get a professional assessment to ensure the cleanup is handled safely and effectively.