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

The responsibility for mold remediation due to an AC leak in a Dubai rental typically falls on the landlord. Under standard tenancy contracts, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structure of the property and the major appliances they provided, which includes the central air conditioning system. An AC unit leaking water is a maintenance issue stemming from a blocked drain line, faulty installation, or insufficient insulation—all of which are the landlord's obligation to repair.

Your landlord's claim that it's due to "AC usage" is unlikely to hold. While tenants must use appliances reasonably, the development of a leak indicates a system fault, not misuse. The recent increase in humidity is a common catalyst, as it causes more condensation that a faulty system cannot drain properly.

For the mold itself, immediate action is required. Document the damage thoroughly with photos and videos, noting the date. Send a formal written notice to your landlord, via email or registered post, stating the issue and requesting urgent repairs and remediation. You can reference the implied warranty of habitability in Dubai rental law, which requires the property to be fit for living.

For a small patch, cleaning the visible mold with a specialized solution may suffice, but it will return if the leak isn't fixed. For any significant spread, especially on drywall or carpet, professional remediation is needed to prevent health risks and structural damage. If the landlord refuses, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai (RDC). Do not withhold rent; follow the official dispute process.