Is landlord or tenant responsible for AC mold?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from an AC unit is typically governed by the terms of your tenancy contract and the Dubai Rental Law. Generally, the landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the main structure of the property and its core systems, including the central air conditioning infrastructure (like the chilled water piping or the main FCU unit). The tenant is usually responsible for minor maintenance and filter cleaning.

However, the scenario you describe—an AC leak causing water damage and subsequent mold growth—points directly to a failure of the AC system itself. This is a maintenance issue for the property owner. The persistent humidity and year-round AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold when a water leak is present. The health symptoms you describe (stuffy nose, cough) are classic indicators of exposure to mold spores and should be taken seriously.

Your first actionable step is to formally notify your building management and landlord in writing, with photographs, about the leak and the mold growth. They are obligated to address the source of the problem to prevent further damage to their asset and to ensure the habitability of the unit.

Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxins and spread contamination. A professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of the mold, identify the exact moisture source, and provide a certified remediation protocol. For a thorough assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly, we recommend you contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate consultation.