Who is responsible for black mold from an AC vent?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for fixing structural issues and problems with central building systems like AC ducts. Since the mold is spreading from the AC vent and has appeared in a common system component, the responsibility likely falls on them, not on you for "improper ventilation."

The recent humidity spike is a common trigger, but it usually exposes an existing problem—like a clogged condensate drain line or a leak in the common chilled water pipe serving your unit. These are maintenance issues for the building owner. Document the mold's growth with dated photos and send a formal written notice to the landlord, requesting a professional inspection to identify the moisture source.

For a case this significant, a proper assessment is needed. An inspection should include a moisture meter reading of the walls and ceiling and may require a borescope camera to check inside the ductwork. This identifies if the issue is a leaky pipe, poor insulation causing condensation, or a blocked drain pan. The remediation cost responsibility hinges on this finding.

If the landlord remains uncooperative, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will often require an expert report from a certified mold inspector to determine liability, which we can provide.