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

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold spreading from the corner of the bedroom ceiling, right where the AC unit is. I'm worried it's been affecting my allergies, which have been terrible lately. Is this something I need to fix myself, or is the landlord legally required to handle this?
Posted by Kayla Hill
Asked on March 18, 2026 4:49 pm
In the UAE, specifically under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (Amended by Law No. 33 of 2008), the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes addressing structural issues and faults in essential systems like air conditioning that lead to mold growth. Since the mold is originating from the AC unit, which is a fixture provided with the apartment, this is almost certainly the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

The key is establishing the cause. The black mold patch on your ceiling is a classic symptom of a condensate drain line blockage or a leak within the AC unit itself. This is a maintenance issue for the property owner. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the issue and including clear photographs. They are required to arrange for a professional to inspect and fix the AC fault to prevent recurrence.

However, for your health and safety, a simple fix may not be enough. The visible patch is just the "bloom"; the spores will have spread. I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection to assess the full extent of contamination within the AC ductwork and the room. This provides documented evidence of the issue and ensures the remediation is done correctly, not just cosmetically. Your worsening allergies are a significant red flag indicating exposure.

For a certified inspection and a formal report you can present to your landlord, call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can exacerbate the spore release and your allergy symptoms.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 19, 2026 9:43 pm