Who pays for AC mold cleanup, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold remediation due to an AC leak typically falls on the landlord, as they are obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. The persistent leak is the root cause, and their previous repair was clearly insufficient.

Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords must address issues that affect the property's usability and the tenant's health. A recurring leak leading to visible mold growth and a damp smell qualifies as a habitability issue. Document everything: dated photos of the leak and mold spread, copies of all communications with your landlord about the issue, and a note of the handyman's ineffective visit.

For a case this advanced, a professional inspection is critical. The black spots and smell indicate active growth, likely inside the wall cavity behind the unit. In Dubai's high humidity, this mold can spread quickly. Proper remediation involves fixing the leak at its source, safely removing contaminated materials, and treating the area to prevent regrowth—not just wiping the wall.

Formally request in writing that your landlord arranges for a proper assessment and remediation by a certified company that can provide documented proof of cleanup. If they refuse, you may file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center. Do not attempt to clean significant mold yourself, as improper methods can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.