AC leak and black mold: emergency or can it wait?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle seems to be constantly leaking, and I’ve just spotted patches of black mold inside the unit and on the wall behind it. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a couple of weeks ago. Given how much we rely on the AC here, is this something I need to get my landlord to fix as an absolute emergency, or is it okay to wait a few days for maintenance?
Posted by Daniel Wright
Asked on May 6, 2026 9:50 am
Yes, this is an urgent matter that requires immediate attention from your landlord. A leaking AC unit with visible black mold in a Dubai apartment is a significant health and property issue, not something to wait on.

The constant moisture from the leak, combined with our high humidity, creates an ideal environment for mold to proliferate rapidly. The spores are likely being circulated throughout your living space every time the AC turns on, which can cause respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and worsen asthma. For infants, elderly residents, or anyone with compromised immunity, the risk is higher.

Legally, your landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's habitability, which includes fixing faulty AC units and the resultant damage like mold growth under Dubai's rental laws. Document everything with clear photos and videos as evidence for your communication.

Stop using that AC unit immediately to prevent further spore dispersal and moisture accumulation. Contact your landlord or property management company in writing, stating the issue clearly, attaching the evidence, and requesting urgent remediation. A proper fix involves more than just wiping the mold; it requires a professional to stop the leak, assess the full extent of moisture damage inside the wall cavity, and safely remediate the mold. For a case this visible, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to ensure it is handled correctly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 8, 2026 10:02 pm