Is AC leak and mold cleanup tenant or landlord responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility depends on the source of the leak. The landlord is responsible for the building's structure and the maintenance of fixed installations like the AC unit and its primary condensate drain line. If the leak is due to a failing unit or a blocked pipe within the building's system, it is typically their obligation to repair it.

As a tenant, you are responsible for reporting the issue promptly and for any damage resulting from your negligence. However, the initial leak and the resultant mold growth caused by a faulty fixture generally fall to the landlord. Document the issue thoroughly with photos and a written notification to the property management or landlord, as this creates a formal record.

Given the high humidity in Dubai, mold can proliferate rapidly from even a minor leak. The visible black patch indicates a significant moisture problem that requires professional remediation. Simply wiping it away is insufficient, as spores will remain. A proper fix involves repairing the AC leak, addressing the moisture damage to the wall, and a certified mold remediation process to ensure it is fully resolved and to prevent recurrence. For a definitive assessment of responsibility and the required repairs, you can request an inspection from a company with microbial testing capabilities to identify the moisture source and mold species.