Who is responsible for mold from a ceiling leak?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing leaks in the roof, external walls, or plumbing that are causing water intrusion. The black mold near your AC vent is a strong indicator of a hidden condensation leak from the AC drain line or a breach in the building envelope, which falls under structural maintenance.

Your responsibility as a tenant is generally limited to daily ventilation and reporting issues promptly. Since you run the AC constantly, which dehumidifies the air, and the mold worsened after high humidity, this points to a pre-existing building issue, not tenant negligence.

First, formally notify your landlord in writing about the leak and mold, as they are legally obligated to address the source. For remediation, the leak must be fixed first; simply cleaning the mold is ineffective. A professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source—often a blocked drain pan or cracked seal—which provides the evidence needed for your landlord.

In severe cases with persistent leaks or health symptoms, a certified mold assessment with lab analysis of the species is advisable to document the issue thoroughly. Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use make these leaks a common issue, but the financial responsibility for repairs lies with the property owner.