AC mold from leak: landlord or tenant responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC unit in the bedroom has been constantly dripping and now we’ve discovered a big patch of black mold spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a few weeks ago. Who is responsible for dealing with this and the cost of repairs, us as tenants or the landlord?
Posted by Leila Sharif
Asked on March 29, 2026 1:21 pm
In the UAE, responsibility for AC mold remediation stemming from a leak is typically determined by the source of the issue and the terms of your tenancy contract. The constant dripping from the AC unit indicates a malfunction of the appliance itself, which is almost always the responsibility of the landlord to repair under standard Dubai rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007). The resulting mold growth on the wall is a direct consequence of this failure.

However, tenant responsibilities include promptly reporting such issues. If the leak was not reported in a timely manner, allowing the mold to proliferate, liability for the damage could be shared. Given that the mold is behind a wardrobe and has developed into a significant patch, this is not a superficial cleaning task. The wall cavity likely requires professional remediation to address the root moisture problem and ensure complete spore removal, which is critical for health.

Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use create a perfect environment for such rapid mold growth. We strongly recommend you immediately notify your landlord in writing about the AC leak and mold, and request a professional inspection. DIY attempts can disturb spores and exacerbate the problem.

Our company, Saniservice, provides certified mold inspection and remediation services, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to definitively resolve such issues. We can provide a detailed report for your landlord outlining the cause and required corrective actions. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 3:41 pm