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

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle seems to be leaking water into the closet in the master bedroom, and now I’m finding black spots of mold all over the walls and our shoes. My husband has had a constant runny nose and headache for the past two weeks, and I’m starting to worry it's connected. Since we’re renting, is the landlord responsible for fixing the AC and the mold remediation, or is this on us to handle?
Posted by Lin Nakamura
Asked on March 28, 2026 12:54 pm
Based on the conditions you've described, this is a serious situation that requires immediate attention, both for the property and your husband's health. The symptoms of a persistent runny nose and headache are classic indicators of exposure to mold mycotoxins, commonly resulting from a Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) infestation, which thrives in the damp, cellulose-rich environment of water-damaged building materials.

In the UAE, the responsibility for such repairs is typically outlined in your tenancy contract and falls under the Dubai Rental Law. Generally, the landlord is legally responsible for the maintenance of the main structure of the property, including the central air conditioning system and any resultant damage caused by its failure. The AC leak is the root cause, and the landlord is obligated to repair it to prevent further damage. The subsequent mold remediation is also their responsibility, as it is direct damage resulting from their failure to maintain the property. You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing of the issue immediately, as delays can exacerbate the problem and health risks.

Given the extent of the growth ("all over the walls") and the evident health impacts, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the leak and assess the full extent of the hidden mold growth within the wall cavities, which is often far greater than what is visible. DIY cleaning is insufficient and can aerosolize spores, worsening the health situation.

For a proper assessment and to ensure your landlord addresses this correctly, I strongly recommend you contact our team. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We can provide a detailed report that can be used to formally request remediation from your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 2:12 am