AC Leak Caused Mold: Landlord or Tenant Responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our Jumeirah apartment has been leaking a little onto the carpet in the master bedroom, and now we’ve discovered a patch of black mold behind the headboard. It’s been getting worse over the hot season. Are we responsible for the cleanup, or is this something the landlord has to fix since it’s related to the AC unit?
Posted by Lauren Wilson
Asked on March 28, 2026 11:45 am
In the UAE, landlord and tenant responsibilities for mold remediation are clearly defined under Law No. 26 of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants in Dubai. The responsibility for this specific issue typically falls on the landlord.

The core issue is the AC unit leak, which is a structural or mechanical defect in the property's provided fixtures. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes ensuring all provided appliances, like the AC unit, function correctly and do not cause damage. The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of this failure to maintain the AC system, especially critical given Dubai's climate where continuous AC operation can lead to significant condensation issues if units are not properly serviced.

However, as a tenant, you have a duty to report any such issues promptly. The timeline you describe ("getting worse over the hot season") is important; immediate reporting is always advised to mitigate damage and clearly establish the landlord's responsibility.

For a case like this, we strongly recommend a professional inspection. A certified mold assessor can determine the exact extent of the growth, identify the moisture source (confirming it's the AC leak), and provide a detailed report that is essential for negotiating with your landlord or building management. Attempting cleanup without addressing the root cause is ineffective and can disturb spores, worsening air quality.

For a definitive assessment and to discuss your specific situation, we advise you to contact our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our experts can provide the necessary documentation and professional remediation services to ensure the mold is removed safely and permanently.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 8:26 pm