who is responsible for black mold near the ac unit?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility typically depends on the source of the moisture. Since the wall is damp and the AC unit is directly on the other side, the issue is likely due to condensation from a poorly insulated AC line or a leak in the unit's drain pan—this is generally the building management's responsibility to fix, as it involves the central AC system.

You should immediately report this in writing to your property management company or landlord. Under most tenancy contracts, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and systems of the property, which includes the central air conditioning. Mold caused by a building system fault is not considered tenant-caused damage.

For your immediate action, move the storage boxes away from the wall to improve air circulation. Wipe the visible mold with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) to prevent its spread, but be aware this only addresses surface growth, not the underlying dampness. The wall must be completely dried, and the AC issue repaired to prevent recurrence.

Given the dampness and that the mold is already spreading, a professional inspection is recommended to identify the exact AC fault and assess any hidden mold within the wall cavity. In Dubai's high humidity, mold can regrow quickly if the moisture source isn't resolved. A reputable inspector can provide a documented report for your landlord, confirming the AC as the cause.