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

Under Dubai rental law, your landlord is typically responsible for addressing mold originating from structural or maintenance issues, which this likely is. The key factor is the source. Since the mold is spreading from the AC vent area and worsened with humidity, the primary cause is almost certainly condensation due to poor insulation around the vent conduit or an issue with the AC unit itself causing excess moisture—both are considered part of the property's infrastructure.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos, detailing the location and its progression. Mention the correlation with high humidity and the AC operation. Request a professional inspection to identify the moisture source, as simply wiping the mold will be a temporary fix. The remediation process must include correcting the underlying condensation problem to prevent recurrence.

For a case that is spreading, a professional assessment is strongly advised to confirm the mold type and fully diagnose the moisture pathway. In many JVC buildings, the "thermal bridge" between the cold AC duct and the warm exterior wall is a common flaw that leads to persistent condensation. Your landlord should arrange for a certified remediation provider who can handle both the mold removal and the necessary repairs to the building envelope. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference your right to a habitable property under Law No. 26 of 2007 and may need to escalate through the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center.