Who is responsible for AC mold remediation in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last couple of months, and now I’m seeing black, fuzzy patches spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. My landlord says it’s from my AC usage and not his problem to fix, but I’m worried about the health effects, especially for my toddler. Who is legally responsible for the remediation costs here in Dubai, the tenant or the landlord?
Posted by Matthew Young
Asked on May 11, 2026 9:01 pm
Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential systems, including the AC unit and its components. Since the leak originates from the AC and has caused structural damage (mold on the wall), the remediation cost for fixing the leak and repairing the wall falls to the landlord.

Your responsibility as a tenant is typically limited to reporting the issue in writing and allowing reasonable access for repairs. For a toddler's health, black mold exposure can cause respiratory irritation, worsened allergies, or asthma-like symptoms. Document the leak and mold growth with photos and send a formal written notice to your landlord, referencing your concern for habitability and indoor air quality under the rental law.

If the landlord refuses, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC) in Dubai. Given the visible spread and potential health risks, a professional inspection is advised to identify the mold species and source of moisture. Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use can cause condensation leaks that are not due to tenant usage but from inadequate insulation or a failing AC drain line, which are the landlord's maintenance responsibilities.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 12, 2026 7:19 am