Are we or the landlord responsible for AC mold?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility for AC mold remediation in Dubai typically depends on the source of the problem. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structure and fixed systems, including the central AC unit and its condensate drain lines, which are the most common source of leaks. Your tenancy contract may also specify maintenance responsibilities.

Since the leak has been ongoing for months and has caused visible mold growth on the wall (a structural element), this is likely the landlord's responsibility to rectify. The high humidity in Dubai accelerates mold growth from any persistent moisture. Notify your landlord or building management in writing immediately, including photos of the leak and the black mold. They should arrange for a professional to fix the AC leak and assess the mold damage.

For your health, the fuzzy black growth and your husband's new allergy symptoms indicate a professional inspection is warranted to identify the mold type and extent. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can release spores. The landlord should address the root cause (the leak), but you may need to coordinate the mold assessment. A certified inspector can provide a lab-verified report detailing the contamination, which is useful for discussions with the landlord and for ensuring the remediation is done correctly.