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

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking on and off for a couple of months, and now I’ve found a big patch of black mold spreading on the wall behind my wardrobe. I’ve told my landlord’s agent about the leak before, but they were slow to fix it. Is the landlord legally required to handle and pay for the professional mold removal, or could this end up being my responsibility since I didn’t catch it sooner?
Posted by Swati Nair
Asked on March 16, 2026 9:13 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This obligation includes addressing major repairs and issues that are not caused by the tenant's negligence. An AC leak originating from the building's central system or a faulty installation falls under the landlord's responsibility for maintenance.

Your prior notification to the landlord's agent is crucial. Under Dubai rental law, once a tenant has reported a defect, the landlord is legally obligated to address it in a timely manner to prevent further damage. Their failure to act promptly on the leak, which has now resulted in significant mold growth, strengthens your position. The presence of black mold (likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger) due to a chronic water intrusion event is a serious habitability and health concern, firmly placing the remediation responsibility on the landlord.

However, you must act prudently. Document everything: take timestamped photos of the leak and the mold growth, and keep records of all communications with the agent. Do not attempt to remove the mold yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores and exacerbate the contamination. The hidden location behind the wardrobe is a major concern, as the wall cavity and insulation may be extensively contaminated, requiring professional assessment and remediation.

Given the climate in Dubai, with high humidity and year-round AC use, mold can proliferate rapidly from such a leak. We strongly recommend you insist on a professional mold inspection to determine the full extent of the contamination. For immediate expert assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly and safely, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and provide your landlord with a definitive scope of work.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 19, 2026 3:29 am