Who is responsible for AC leak and black mold removal?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the property's structure and essential services, which includes fixing the AC unit and its condensate drain line that is causing the leak. The resulting water damage and mold growth are a direct consequence of that unresolved maintenance issue.

Your health concern is valid. The black, fuzzy patches indicate a significant moisture problem. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold, this requires proper remediation, not just surface cleaning. Wiping it away without fixing the leak and addressing the moisture trapped behind the wardrobe will cause it to return quickly and continue to spread.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the AC leak and the resulting mold, as it is a habitability issue. If they refuse to address the root cause, you can file a complaint with the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) in Dubai. For a case this advanced, a professional inspection is recommended to assess the full extent of the moisture damage and identify the mold species, as this provides documented evidence of the problem's severity. The landlord is typically responsible for the cost of the repairs and remediation necessitated by their failure to maintain the AC unit.