AC leak causing black mold on carpet: landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots are almost certainly mold, a direct result of the AC leak and our high humidity. In Dubai, the landlord is legally responsible for addressing the source of the problem—the leaking AC unit—as it falls under structural maintenance. You must notify them in writing immediately to start the repair process.

For the mold itself, the responsibility for remediation can depend on your rental contract, but the health risk means acting quickly is essential. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, especially with bleach, as improper methods can aerosolize spores and spread the problem. A professional inspection is advised to assess the extent, as moisture can wick up walls and soak into the subflooring behind the carpet, which isn't visible.

You can request that the landlord arranges for a certified mold remediation company to handle the cleanup. A proper remediation will involve containing the area, removing the affected carpet and padding, HEPA vacuuming, and using antimicrobial treatments, followed by verification that the space is safe. Given the climate, ensuring the AC is serviced to prevent future condensation is a key part of the long-term solution.