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

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, landlords are fundamentally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its core systems, which includes the central air conditioning unit. The presence of black mold originating from a malfunctioning AC unit falls under this obligation, as the AC is a critical system provided with the property.

The damp smell you describe is a classic indicator of microbial growth within the AC's evaporator coils or drip pan, a common issue exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and the year-round reliance on AC. This condensation provides the perfect environment for mold, which then spores into the living space, settling and growing on walls and contents, as you've seen behind the wardrobe.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including clear photographs. This creates a necessary paper trail. Emphasize that the mold is a direct result of a faulty AC system, a maintenance item for which they are responsible. While your contract may not explicitly mention mold, the landlord's statutory duty to provide a habitable property is implied.

For a case of visible spreading growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. DIY attempts can disturb the colony, causing widespread spore dispersal and potential health issues. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, trace the moisture source definitively to the AC unit, and provide a detailed remediation protocol.

Our team at Saniservice specializes in this exact scenario. We can provide the technical report your landlord may require and handle the complete remediation process. For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.