Are we responsible for mold inspection in our rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for major maintenance and structural issues falls on the landlord. This includes problems with the building's core systems, such as the central air conditioning unit and the structural integrity of the walls. The water leakage from the AC is the root cause of the mold growth, making this the landlord's financial and legal responsibility to rectify.

Given the conditions you've described—a persistent leak over several months and visible black microbial growth—this is a serious case that requires immediate professional attention. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold to proliferate rapidly, especially behind furniture where air circulation is poor. The black spots indicate an active colony that could be affecting your indoor air quality and potentially causing health issues.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) of the issue, citing the leaking AC and resultant mold growth. Clearly state that this constitutes a breach of your right to a habitable property as per the rental contract and request immediate, professional inspection and remediation. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination.

For a definitive assessment and to pressure your landlord, we recommend you commission a professional inspection from a certified provider like Saniservice. Our certified inspectors will perform air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration of mold, providing a detailed report that can be used to formally request remediation from your landlord. For immediate assistance, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.