Who is responsible for mold removal: tenant or management?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility depends on the source of the leak. Under Dubai rental law, the landlord or building management is responsible for fixing structural issues and common building systems, which includes the main AC condensate drain line. If the leak originates from that line, they must repair it.

However, tenants are responsible for damage resulting from negligence or lack of maintenance, like not reporting a drip promptly. Since you've noted the AC has dripped for some time, documenting when you first observed the issue is crucial.

For a patch large enough to be hidden behind a wardrobe, a professional inspection is strongly advised. The visible mold is likely just a portion of the growth, and the moisture may have penetrated the wall structure. In Dubai's high humidity, this can spread quickly. The inspection will identify the exact leak source and the full extent of the infestation, which is key for determining responsibility.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, and request an immediate inspection for the leak and mold. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the problem. The underlying moisture issue must be fixed first; otherwise, the mold will return quickly.