Is my landlord responsible for AC mold removal?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai tenancy law, your landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing the root cause of persistent mold growth. Since the mold is on the wall near the AC unit and linked to a humidity spike, the issue likely stems from a building envelope or condensation problem, placing responsibility on the landlord.

The recurring black mold, especially after attempts to clean it, indicates an underlying moisture issue that needs professional diagnosis. In Dubai's climate, this is often caused by thermal bridging in walls, poor insulation, or a malfunctioning AC unit not properly dehumidifying the air. Wiping surface mold with vinegar is a temporary measure; the hidden moisture source must be identified and resolved.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the persistent mold and your health concerns. Request that they arrange for a professional inspection to find the moisture source, which could be a leaking pipe, faulty sealant, or an AC drain line blockage. For health reasons, given the recurring growth and your children's symptoms, a professional mold inspection and air quality test are strongly recommended to identify the species and concentration.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC), as this constitutes a failure to provide a habitable property. Document the issue with dated photos and your communication. While the landlord handles the structural fix, the cost of cleaning your personal belongings may fall to you, but the remediation of the apartment itself is their obligation.