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

The AC in our bedroom has been dripping water onto the floor for a couple of weeks, and now I've spotted a patch of black mold growing on the wall right behind the chiller unit. We're in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle and it's been so humid lately. Is the landlord responsible for fixing the chiller and the mold, or is this on me to handle?
Posted by Richard Wright
Asked on March 27, 2026 10:15 am
Based on the situation you've described, the landlord is almost certainly responsible for the AC leak and the resulting mold growth. In Dubai, tenancy law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007 (amended by Law No. 33 of 2008), places the obligation for major maintenance and structural repairs squarely on the landlord. This includes the maintenance and repair of central air conditioning systems, known as chillers, which are considered a fundamental part of the property's infrastructure.

The persistent water drip indicates a failure in the chiller's condensate drainage system—a common issue in JVC's humid climate that leads directly to the moisture source feeding the mold. The black mold on the wall is a direct consequence of this unresolved maintenance issue. As the tenant, your responsibility is typically limited to minor maintenance and promptly reporting such problems, which you have done.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Reference the leak and the visible mold growth. They are obligated to engage a professional HVAC technician to repair the chiller leak and a certified mold remediation company, like ours, to address the contamination. Improper cleanup can spread spores and pose health risks.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly to Dubai Municipality standards, we recommend a professional inspection. Our certified experts can identify the full extent of the mold and provide a report for your landlord.

Feel free to call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an evaluation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 7:45 am