Is landlord responsible for AC mold inspection?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and habitability of the property, which includes addressing issues like mold caused by building defects or faulty AC systems. Since the black spots are on the wall and coincide with a smelly AC, this points to a potential leak or condensation issue within the building envelope or the AC unit itself—a maintenance problem typically falling to the landlord.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, including photos of the mold and a description of the AC odor. They are generally obligated to arrange and pay for the initial inspection to determine the cause. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use can lead to condensation buildup, this is a common issue they should address.

For your safety, a professional inspection is recommended. The damp smell from the AC suggests internal microbial growth, and wall mold could be more extensive behind the wardrobe. A proper inspection involves moisture mapping and often air or surface sampling to identify the species, as some types common here can cause significant irritation. The landlord's responsibility for the subsequent remediation costs depends entirely on the inspection's findings; if it's due to a building fault, they pay. If it was caused by tenant behavior (e.g., blocking vents, not running AC), that conversation may be different. Start by putting the request in your landlord's court.