Who is responsible for black mold behind my AC unit?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for this mold remediation and repainting is almost certainly your landlord's under Dubai rental law. This is a pre-existing structural issue, not a result of your tenancy.

The black mold growth behind the AC unit is a direct result of chronic condensation and a pre-existing moisture issue within the wall or AC drainage system. Since you moved in only six months ago and the mold appears old, this points to a long-standing maintenance problem. Dubai's high humidity, especially in recent months, accelerates this kind of concealed mold growth in poorly insulated buildings, which is a building integrity issue.

According to standard tenancy contracts and the Dubai Rental Law, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, including walls and built-in fixtures. Tenants are typically responsible for routine cleaning of the AC unit's filters, but not for addressing structural mold caused by faulty installation, insulation, or drainage. Your landlord's claim that you are at fault for not cleaning the AC is incorrect; internal cleaning would not prevent mold growing on the wall itself behind the unit.

For a case this severe, a professional inspection and lab test are critical. The inspection will document the source of moisture (e.g., a leaking drain pipe, poor insulation) and the extent of the infestation, which is vital evidence for your landlord. Do not attempt to clean significant black mold yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.

Formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best), include clear photographs of the mold, and state that a professional assessment is required to determine the root cause. If they remain uncooperative, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. The RDC commonly sides with tenants on health and safety issues stemming from property disrepair.