Is AC leak causing mold an emergency for landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle seems to be leaking a little water into the closet where the unit is, and now I’ve spotted a patch of black mold on the back wall. It’s been getting worse over the last couple of weeks with the humidity. Is this something I need to get my landlord to fix as an emergency, or can it wait until next week?
Posted by Jessica Scott
Asked on April 19, 2026 1:00 pm
A persistent AC leak causing visible mold growth should be addressed immediately, not delayed. The combination of standing water and Dubai's high humidity creates an ideal environment for mold to proliferate rapidly, potentially spreading spores into your living space through the air system.

While not a structural emergency requiring 24-hour response, it qualifies as a necessary repair for health and property preservation. Document the issue with clear photos and videos, then formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing. Under typical tenancy contracts, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the AC unit and remediating damage it causes. The mold itself may require professional assessment, as improper cleaning can exacerbate the problem.

For a small, contained patch, the landlord may arrange for the leak repair and a simple cleanup. If the wall is porous or the area is larger than a square foot, a proper remediation protocol involving containment and air scrubbing is often needed to prevent recurrence. The priority is stopping the moisture source—the leak—first. A company with microbiology expertise can then test to identify the mold type and verify it has been properly removed after cleanup.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 22, 2026 1:01 am