Black mold found near AC, how to handle landlord in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The damp smell and visible mold indicate a condensation or water leak issue, likely from the AC unit itself or its drain line. This is a common problem in Dubai's climate where ACs run year-round, creating constant moisture that fuels mold growth behind furniture and curtains where air doesn't circulate.

For your landlord, your first step is to formally notify them in writing (email is best) with clear photos of the mold and a description of the smell. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, which includes the AC system and addressing moisture penetration that affects habitability. Clearly state that the issue is a potential health concern, especially for your toddler, and requires immediate professional remediation to prevent structural damage.

Do not attempt to clean a large patch yourself, as disturbing it can release a high concentration of spores into the air. Proper remediation involves isolating the area, using HEPA filtration, and removing the mold at its source, which is often inside the wall or AC system.

Request that the landlord hires a professional mold inspection and remediation company. The process should start with a diagnostic test to identify the moisture source and mold type, followed by a detailed remediation plan. The company should provide before-and-after lab reports to verify the spore count has been returned to safe levels, which is a reasonable request for your landlord to fulfill. Keep all communication documented in case you need to escalate to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).