Is landlord responsible for AC leak mold in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last couple of months, and now we've discovered a large patch of black mold spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. We're in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle and have reported the AC issue to the landlord before. Are we responsible for fixing this and cleaning the mold, or is it the landlord's duty since the AC unit is the cause?
Posted by Youssef Habib
Asked on April 1, 2026 6:17 pm
Based on UAE Civil Code and the standard tenancy contract in Dubai, the responsibility for maintenance of major building systems, including the central AC unit and its associated ducting, falls squarely on the landlord. Since the mold growth is a direct result of a pre-existing and reported AC leak, this constitutes a maintenance issue related to the property's structure and essential services. Your prior reporting of the AC issue is critical evidence that you have fulfilled your tenant obligation to notify the landlord of the defect.

The persistent humidity and condensation from the leak create the perfect environment for mold proliferation, a common issue in Dubai's climate. The black mold you describe is a serious concern that requires professional assessment. Disturbing it without proper containment can exacerbate spore dispersal, potentially affecting air quality and health.

Your immediate step should be to formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail), referencing your previous reports and including clear photographs of the mold and the leak. Clearly state that the mold is a result of the unrepaired AC unit and request immediate professional remediation.

For a situation of this scale, we strongly recommend a professional inspection and remediation plan. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the extent of the contamination, identify the mold species, and provide a detailed report for your landlord, outlining the necessary steps for safe and effective remediation. Do not attempt to clean significant black mold growth yourself.

For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can liaise directly with your landlord or property management company to resolve this issue professionally and efficiently.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 2, 2026 6:47 pm