Is landlord responsible for bathroom mold from AC condensation?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues related to fundamental building systems, like the central AC and its condensation drainage. Since the mold is recurring due to persistent dampness from a potential AC condensate leak or inadequate ventilation—a building system issue—this is typically the landlord's obligation to repair.

As a tenant, your responsibility is to report the issue in writing immediately and maintain general cleanliness to prevent mold caused by your own usage. Document the problem thoroughly with photos and dates to show it is a recurring structural dampness issue, not a one-time cleaning problem. The constant high humidity and condensation from year-round AC use in Dubai make this a very common issue, and the underlying cause needs to be fixed.

First, report it formally to your landlord or building management in Jumeirah Village Triangle, stating the black mold is caused by a persistent AC condensation leak. They should send a technician to inspect the AC drain line and the condensation drain pan for blockages or damage, which is the most common source. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.

Until it is repaired, increase bathroom ventilation by running the exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after showering and wiping down wet surfaces. However, cleaning it yourself repeatedly is only a temporary fix; the moisture source must be addressed. For severe, persistent mold, a professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source and type of mold, which can be useful documentation for your landlord.