Who is responsible for AC leak mold when tenant is away?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its core systems, including the AC and its drainage. An AC leak is a maintenance issue, and the resulting water damage and mold growth fall squarely under the landlord's obligation to repair.

Your absence does not void this responsibility. AC systems in Dubai are designed to handle periods of non-use without leaking. A properly functioning unit should not produce condensation that leads to a leak and mold growth on walls, regardless of how often it runs. The landlord's claim is not technically sound; the leak is the root cause, not your usage pattern.

For a mold patch large enough to be described as "huge," professional remediation is strongly advised. Disturbing it can release a significant number of spores. The process requires fixing the leak at its source, isolating the affected area, safely removing contaminated materials, and conducting a thorough antifungal treatment.

Document everything: take clear photos and videos of the mold and the leak source. Send a formal written notification to your landlord or property management company, referencing your rights under RERA and requesting immediate repairs and mold remediation. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center. For verification of the mold type and extent, a professional inspection with lab analysis can provide a definitive report to support your case.