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

Based on the UAE Civil Code and the specifics of your tenancy contract, the responsibility for structural and maintenance issues typically falls on the landlord. An AC unit leak is considered a maintenance issue with the property's fixed systems. Therefore, the landlord is legally obligated to repair the leak at the source, which is the primary cause of the problem.

However, the resulting mold growth and its remediation is a more complex matter. While the landlord must fix the leak, the cleanup of the mold itself can become a point of contention if it is argued that the tenants did not report the moisture issue in a timely manner, allowing the mold to proliferate. Given that the leak has been ongoing for months, this is a critical factor. The humid Dubai climate, with its high levels of condensation year-round, accelerates mold growth dramatically, making prompt reporting essential.

Crucially, the black, fuzzy patch you describe and your husband's allergic reactions are strong indicators of a significant microbial issue. "Black mold" is a serious health hazard and attempting to clean it without proper containment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and industrial-grade antimicrobial agents can aerosolize the spores, worsening the contamination and health risks. This is not a DIY cleaning task.

We strongly recommend you immediately notify your landlord in writing about the AC leak and the visible mold growth. Simultaneously, you should seek a professional indoor environmental inspection and testing. A certified inspector can identify the exact species of mold, assess the extent of the contamination behind the wall and wardrobe, and provide a detailed remediation protocol. This objective report is invaluable for clearly defining responsibilities with your landlord.

For a comprehensive inspection and certified remediation plan, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. Do not disturb the affected area until it has been professionally evaluated.