Is AC leak and mold a landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the description you've provided—a persistent AC leak, visible black spots spreading on the wall, and associated health symptoms like a scratchy throat—this is almost certainly a mold issue. The high humidity in Dubai, combined with a constant moisture source from the leaking AC unit, creates the perfect environment for toxic black mold (like Stachybotrys) to proliferate.

Regarding responsibility in the UAE, the law is generally clear. Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's main structure and essential services, which includes the central AC system and the integrity of the walls. Since the mold growth is a direct result of a faulty AC unit (a landlord-provided appliance) and has now affected the building's structure (the wall), the financial responsibility for the remediation falls on the landlord.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, including the photos of the leak and mold growth. They are obligated to address it promptly. However, do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can cause spores to become airborne and spread throughout your apartment, worsening the contamination and your health symptoms.

This situation requires professional assessment and remediation. The leaking AC unit needs to be repaired by an HVAC technician, and the mold must be professionally tested to identify the species and then remediated by a certified mold removal company using industry-standard protocols like HEPA vacuuming, antimicrobial application, and proper disposal. We strongly recommend you get a professional inspection to document the extent of the problem.

For immediate assistance with testing and a remediation quote, you can call our experts at 800-MOLDS or email us at hello@saniservice.com.