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

The landlord is typically responsible for repairs to the AC unit itself and any resulting damage, including mold from a leak. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords must maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes ensuring the proper functioning of major systems like air conditioning. A persistent leak that causes structural damage and mold growth falls under this obligation.

The landlord's claim about not running the AC cold enough is not valid. While setting the thermostat very high can cause excess condensation, 23°C is a standard and reasonable temperature. The root cause is a malfunction in the AC unit's drainage system, not your usage.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) about the leak and the mold, with clear photographs attached. This creates a dated record. Request immediate repairs to the AC and a professional assessment of the mold. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper disturbance can spread spores.

For extensive growth, a professional inspection is critical to determine the mold type and the proper remediation protocol, which involves fixing the moisture source, containment, safe removal, and antimicrobial treatment. In Dubai's high humidity, simply wiping it away will not prevent rapid regrowth. The landlord should arrange and pay for the remediation and subsequent repairs to the wall. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.