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

In Dubai, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and essential systems of the property, which includes the AC system and any resultant mold caused by its malfunction. The damp smell and visible mold around the vent strongly suggest an issue with condensation drainage or a water leak within the AC unit itself, a common problem in our high-humidity climate where ACs run year-round.

Your first step is to formally report this in writing to your landlord or property management company immediately. Include clear photos of the mold and describe the odor. Under the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is obligated to address repairs that affect the habitability of the unit. Since this is a health concern and likely a system failure, they are typically responsible for the cost of the remediation and fixing the root cause.

Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination. For a case with visible growth and a persistent odor, a professional inspection is advised to identify the moisture source and assess the full extent. The remediation process should involve fixing the AC leak, proper containment of the area, safe removal of contaminated materials, and antimicrobial treatment to prevent recurrence. A verifiable post-remediation verification test is the only way to confirm the space is truly safe.