Who handles black mold near AC vent in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Tenants are typically not responsible for structural repairs like this, which includes mold remediation and repainting. Under Dubai rental law, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and addressing issues that affect livability, especially those related to water ingress or building envelope failures.

The location near the AC vent is a critical clue. In Dubai's climate, this is often caused by a poorly insulated AC duct causing condensation inside the wall or ceiling cavity, or a leak in the condensate drain line from the AC unit itself. This is a building system issue, not something caused by tenant behavior. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, including clear photos. They are obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture—simply cleaning the visible mold without addressing the underlying cause will lead to it returning quickly.

For a spreading patch, a professional inspection is strongly advised to identify the exact moisture source and assess the extent of the hidden growth. Remediation involves fixing the water issue, safely removing the contaminated materials, and repainting with mold-resistant coatings. The landlord should coordinate this. As tenants, your responsibility is to report it promptly and allow access for the assessment and repairs. Keep records of all communication.