AC leak causing black mold: landlord or my responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the property's structure and essential services, which includes the central air conditioning system and the building envelope. An AC unit leaking inside the wall is a structural and mechanical issue, making it the landlord's responsibility to repair the leak at its source.

Your responsibility as a tenant is typically to report the issue in writing immediately to avoid further damage. The resulting mold growth and water damage to the wall should also be addressed by the landlord, as it is a direct consequence of their maintenance failure. However, the repainting of the affected wall may depend on your specific tenancy contract; some contracts stipulate that tenants are responsible for internal decoration.

Given the high humidity in Dubai, this black spot growth is likely active mold, which can spread quickly. You should document the issue with dated photos and formally notify your landlord or building management in writing. For health and verification purposes, a professional inspection can identify the mold species and the leak's exact origin, which is often useful for clarifying responsibility. The remediation should involve fixing the leak first, then addressing the mold with proper containment and removal methods to prevent spores from spreading throughout the apartment.