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

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the property's structural elements and major appliances, which includes the central air conditioning system and the building envelope. An AC unit leaking water is a maintenance issue for the property owner, as it is a fixture of the property. The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that maintenance failure.

The climate in Dubai, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC, creates a perfect environment for mold when condensation issues arise. Your attempt to clean with bleach is a common mistake; bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and carpet, as it only removes the surface discoloration without addressing the root hyphae (the fungal roots) deep within the material. This is precisely why the growth returns.

For a permanent resolution, the AC leak must be professionally repaired to eliminate the moisture source. The affected area will then require proper mold remediation by a certified company like Saniservice. This involves containment, removal of contaminated porous materials (carpet, padding, potentially a section of drywall), HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment to ensure it does not recur.

I strongly recommend you formally notify your landlord of the issue in writing, requesting immediate repair of the AC unit and remediation of the mold. For a professional inspection and a detailed report to provide to your landlord, you should contact our specialists. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.