Black mold in closet from AC leak, landlord responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots are likely mold growth from the AC's condensation leak, a common issue in Dubai's humid climate where constant AC operation creates excess moisture. The landlord is responsible for repairing the source of the moisture—the leaking AC unit and its drainage line—as this constitutes a maintenance issue affecting the property's habitability.

Document the issue thoroughly with clear photos and videos of both the mold and the leaking AC unit. Send a written notification to your landlord or property management company, citing the problem and requesting immediate repair of the AC leak to prevent further damage. For the mold itself, professional assessment is advised for a closet interior, as the growth behind walls could be more extensive than visible. Remediation involves fixing the moisture source, then properly cleaning and treating the affected area to prevent recurrence.

While Dubai doesn't have a specific mold statute, tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007) obligates landlords to maintain the property in a habitable condition. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For your health, keep the closet ventilated and avoid disturbing the mold until it's assessed.