Is landlord responsible for AC mold affecting my child?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now I’m seeing a patch of black mold on the wall behind the headboard. My two-year-old has had a runny nose and a cough that just won’t go away, and I’m starting to worry it’s connected. Who is responsible for fixing this and the cleanup, me as the tenant or my landlord in Dubai?
Posted by Bhavna Thakur
Asked on April 25, 2026 12:15 am
Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and essential services of a property. This includes the central air conditioning system and any damage caused by its failure, like water leaks leading to mold. You must notify the landlord or property management company in writing about the AC leak and resulting mold, as this establishes a formal record of the issue.

Given your child's persistent symptoms, this is a serious health concern that requires immediate action. The consistent humidity here creates an environment where mold can spread quickly behind walls. A professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of the growth, which is often more widespread than what is visible. For a child's health, identifying the specific mold type through lab testing is advisable to understand the potential risk.

The landlord is typically responsible for the repair of the AC unit and the remediation of the mold damage it caused. The cleanup must be handled properly; simply wiping the visible patch is insufficient if the moisture has penetrated the drywall or insulation. The landlord should hire a certified remediation company to ensure it is addressed at the source. Keep all communication documented. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For your family's health, prioritize a professional assessment to get a clear picture of the problem and the necessary steps to resolve it.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 26, 2026 3:56 pm