Is AC leak adn black mold landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the main structure of the property and its core systems, which includes the central air conditioning unit and the building envelope (walls, ceilings). An AC unit leaking inside the wall, leading to structural mold growth, falls under this category. Your responsibility as a tenant typically covers minor internal maintenance and general cleanliness.

The persistent leak is the root cause; simply cleaning the visible mold is ineffective if the moisture source isn't fixed. Given Dubai's high humidity, this dampness will cause the mold to return quickly and potentially spread inside the wall cavity. Black discoloration can indicate various species, some of which cause significant irritation or allergic reactions, especially in a bedroom where exposure is prolonged.

Formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) about the leak and the subsequent mold growth, reiterating that it is a maintenance issue affecting the property's structure. You can reference that the repair is necessary to prevent further damage to their asset. If they remain uncooperative, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai.

For a situation like this, a professional inspection is advised to assess the full extent of the moisture damage and mold growth behind the wall. Remediation involves fixing the leak, properly drying the area, and then cleaning or replacing affected materials. DIY cleaning with bleach is not recommended as it often fails to address hidden growth and can exacerbate spore release.