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

Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, landlords are generally responsible for the maintenance of the property's structure and major systems, including the central air conditioning and any resulting damage from their failure. The AC unit's leak, which is a structural or mechanical defect, falls under the landlord's obligation to rectify. The subsequent mold growth is a direct result of this unresolved maintenance issue, placing the responsibility for the remediation on the landlord as well.

However, the specific terms of your tenancy contract should be reviewed, as some contracts may assign responsibility for AC servicing to the tenant. The persistent dripping you observed is a clear indicator of a problem that should have been reported immediately. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and year-round AC use, condensation issues are common but can quickly lead to significant mold infestations if not addressed.

For a case of this magnitude, a professional inspection is strongly advised. The "huge patch" of black mold indicates a serious moisture problem that may have penetrated beyond the surface. DIY cleaning is not recommended as it can disturb toxic spores and fail to address the root cause. A certified mold inspector can assess the full extent of the contamination, identify the exact species of mold, and provide a protocol for safe, effective remediation and moisture source correction.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, and request immediate action to fix the leak and remediate the mold. For a professional assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.