Is landlord responsible for AC leak and mold?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for maintenance and repairs, including those related to AC units and resultant mold, is typically defined in the tenancy contract under Law No. (26) of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008. Generally, the landlord is legally responsible for the structural integrity of the property and the maintenance of major building systems, which includes the central air conditioning system. An AC leak falls under this category, as it is a failure of a provided fixture.

The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that moisture intrusion. Given Dubai's high humidity levels and year-round reliance on AC, condensation and leaks must be addressed immediately to prevent microbial amplification. The black spots spreading on your wall are a significant indicator of an active mold colony, which is corroborated by your husband's health symptoms—stuffy nose and itchy eyes are classic presentations of mold exposure.

As a tenant, your responsibility is to report the issue to the landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Failure by the landlord to address the leak in a timely manner, leading to property damage (the mold) and health impacts, could be considered a breach of their obligations. However, you must allow a reasonable time for them to respond and rectify.

Crucially, the remediation of the mold itself requires professional intervention. Simply wiping the spots is insufficient; the hidden moisture within the wall cavity must be identified with thermal imaging and moisture meters, and the affected materials must be properly remediated to prevent recurrence and protect health.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified team at Saniservice can provide a comprehensive report detailing the cause, extent, and protocol for remediation, which can be crucial for discussions with your landlord. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance.