Is black mold from AC leak landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be leaking a bit of water into the closet in our master bedroom, and now I’ve found a patch of black mold spreading on the back wall. We’re in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle and I’m worried about my toddler’s health. Is getting this cleaned up the landlord's responsibility or is this on me to handle?
Posted by Tomasz Gonzalez
Asked on April 3, 2026 1:44 pm
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and the functionality of its core systems, including the air conditioning. A leaking AC unit that results in water damage and subsequent mold growth falls squarely under this obligation. The landlord must ensure the property is habitable and free from health hazards, which black mold certainly constitutes.

In your case at Jumeirah Village Circle, the proximate cause is the faulty AC, making this the landlord's responsibility to rectify. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Include clear photographs of the leak and the mold growth. It is critical that they address not only the leak but also the resulting mold contamination, as simply wiping the visible patch is insufficient. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai's climate create ideal conditions for mold to proliferate deep within wall cavities.

Given the presence of a toddler, whose respiratory systems are more vulnerable, I strongly recommend a professional assessment. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice can conduct a thorough investigation to determine the full extent of the contamination, identify the mold species, and provide a detailed remediation protocol that the landlord can action. Do not attempt to disturb the mold yourself, as this can aerosolize harmful spores.

For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. We can also provide documentation to support your case with the landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 4:12 pm