Is landlord responsible for hidden mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and fixing issues related to the building's core systems, including plumbing and AC units. A hidden AC leak that causes mold is typically considered a maintenance issue for the property owner, not the tenant, even if it wasn't reported immediately.

However, the responsibility can become disputed if the landlord argues the tenant's use of the property (like not ventilating properly) contributed to the problem. Given the health symptoms you've described—sinus headaches and congestion are common reactions to prolonged mold exposure—this is a serious issue that needs professional assessment. The humid Dubai climate and constant AC use create perfect conditions for hidden condensation leaks and rapid mold growth.

Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord in writing, with photos, and request immediate remediation for the AC leak and mold. For a case this significant, a professional indoor environmental inspection is strongly recommended. The inspection report will document the source (the AC leak) and the extent of the mold, which is crucial evidence of the landlord's responsibility to fix the underlying cause. Without addressing the moisture source, the mold will simply return. If the landlord refuses to act, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai, where an expert will be appointed to assess the situation.