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

Under Dubai's rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for structural maintenance, including fixing the AC unit itself and any damage its malfunction causes. Since the leak originates from the AC, the repair and subsequent remediation of the resulting water damage and mold are likely the landlord's obligation.

The persistent humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for this exact problem. Condensation from a poorly draining unit leaks onto drywall, and the organic material in the dust there provides a food source for mold, which then thrives in the dark, stagnant space behind furniture.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Include clear photos of the leak source and the mold growth. They are required to address issues that affect the property's condition and your health. For a case with visible spreading mold, a professional inspection is advised to assess the full extent behind the wall, which standard maintenance crews often miss. A company with a microbiology lab can identify the mold type and verify its removal through post-remediation testing.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai. However, if the damage was caused by tenant misuse, such as not reporting a minor leak for an extended period, the cost could potentially be argued as yours. Given the slow progression you've described, the responsibility for the repair and remediation most likely falls to the property owner.