How to get landlord to fix moldy AC?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been making this weird damp smell for the past couple of months, and now I’ve started finding black spots along the edges of the vent. I’ve been waking up with a stuffy nose and a headache that just won’t shift, and I’m worried it’s connected. What’s the best way to get my landlord to take this seriously and properly clean the AC unit?
Posted by Fatima Al-Sabah
Asked on April 26, 2026 7:45 pm
The black spots and damp smell are classic signs of a mold-contaminated AC unit, and your symptoms are commonly linked to the resulting poor indoor air quality. Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold growth in condensation pans and ductwork.

Start by formally notifying your landlord in writing (email is best), clearly describing the visible mold, the persistent odor, and the health symptoms you're experiencing. Reference Dubai Municipality's regulations, which hold property owners responsible for maintaining healthy living conditions, including functional and clean air conditioning systems. Politely insist that a standard wipe-down is insufficient; the entire system needs a professional deep clean to address the root cause in the evaporator coils and drip pans.

For serious cases like this, recommend a professional inspection. The findings, especially if backed by a lab report identifying the mold species, provide concrete evidence that moves the conversation from a complaint to a documented health and maintenance issue. This report is your strongest leverage, as it verifies the problem and the required scope of remediation. Most reputable landlords will act on this evidence to prevent further damage to the property and tenant health. If they remain unresponsive, you can escalate the matter by informing them you will contact the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 28, 2026 1:35 am