Am I liable for AC leak mold in my rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit onto the wall for the last couple of months, and now I’m seeing a big black mold patch spreading behind the wardrobe in my Marina apartment. My landlord says it's from how we use the AC, but we keep it on auto like everyone else. Are we legally responsible for the mold removal and repainting, or is this the building's maintenance issue?
Posted by Noura Farah
Asked on April 5, 2026 12:38 pm
Based on the specifics of your situation in Marina, this is a highly common issue in Dubai's climate, and liability is rarely straightforward. The continuous high humidity and year-round AC use create significant condensation, which is the primary culprit.

Legally, under the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is typically responsible for the maintenance of the main structure of the property and its core systems, including the central AC unit and the internal drainage pipes that may be causing the leak. Your responsibility as a tenant generally covers day-to-day usage and minor maintenance. Since you are using the AC on a standard auto setting, it is unlikely you are liable for the mechanical failure causing the leak.

The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that water intrusion. The black patch behind the wardrobe is a serious indicator of a larger problem; this type of growth can compromise indoor air quality and the structural integrity of the drywall.

We strongly recommend you do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize toxic spores. A professional inspection is essential to identify the exact source of the leak (e.g., clogged drain pan, faulty insulation, broken condensate line) and to conduct air and surface sampling to determine the mold species and extent of contamination. This certified report is your strongest evidence in any dispute with the landlord regarding liability for the remediation and repainting costs.

For immediate assistance with inspection, testing, and a comprehensive remediation plan, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 8:53 pm