Is AC leak causing mold my landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its core systems, including the central air conditioning. An AC leak falls under this category, as it is a malfunction of a provided appliance that is causing property damage.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the leak and the resulting mold. Provide clear photographs as evidence. They are typically obligated to arrange for the repair of the AC unit to stop the moisture source. The persistent high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold to flourish within 24-48 hours of a water event, so this is a common issue that needs prompt attention.

The responsibility for the mold remediation itself can be less clear-cut and often depends on the lease agreement. While the landlord must fix the leak, the cleanup of the resulting mold may be a shared responsibility. However, given that the mold is behind a wardrobe and likely within the wall, this is not superficial cleaning. Professional assessment is strongly advised to determine the full extent.

For a situation involving visible spreading patches and a persistent damp smell, a professional inspection is necessary. They can identify the mold type and map the moisture spread, which is often wider than what is visible. Remediation involves fixing the leak, properly drying the area, and then removing the contaminated materials. Simply wiping the visible spot is insufficient and will lead to recurrence. The landlord should be involved in this process due to the potential for structural damage.