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

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's structural elements and essential services, which includes the central air conditioning system. Since the AC unit is a fixed installation, its maintenance and any issues stemming from its condition, like internal mold growth, are typically the landlord's obligation.

The black dust is likely a buildup of general debris, but the fuzzy black spots are a strong visual indicator of active mold growth. This is a common issue in Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use create significant condensation inside units, providing an ideal environment for mold. The timing aligns perfectly with the recent spike in humidity.

For a confirmed diagnosis and to identify the specific mold type, a professional inspection with air and surface sampling is needed. These samples are analyzed in a microbiology lab to determine the spore count and species, which dictates the necessary remediation steps. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) about the visible mold and your health concerns, requesting a professional mold inspection. Include clear photos of the vent and the fuzzy growth.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference your right to a habitable property and may need to escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center. Given that your children are experiencing symptoms, pursuing a lab-verified inspection is the most prudent course of action to ensure their health and properly address the contamination.