Is landlord responsible for bedroom mold near AC?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for two years and just noticed a patch of black mold spreading from the corner of the bedroom ceiling, right where the wall meets the AC unit. It’s gotten much worse since the recent humidity. Is my landlord responsible for the mold remediation and fixing the leak, or is this on me as the tenant to handle?
Posted by Amit Chauhan
Asked on May 4, 2026 9:56 am
Under Dubai tenancy law, the landlord is typically responsible for addressing the root cause of the mold, which is almost certainly a hidden water leak or condensation issue from the AC unit or its drainage line. The recent high humidity has likely exacerbated a pre-existing problem. Your responsibility as the tenant is generally to report the issue promptly and maintain reasonable cleanliness and ventilation.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, including clear photos of the mold's progression. Request that they send a professional to not only remove the visible mold but, crucially, to locate and repair the source of moisture. Without fixing the leak, the mold will simply return.

For a case like this, a proper inspection is key. The remediation process should involve isolating the area, removing contaminated materials safely, and using professional-grade antimicrobial treatments. Given the location near the AC, the entire system may also need inspection and cleaning to prevent spores from circulating.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference the legal principle of a property being fit for habitation. Escalation paths include contacting the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). For your own records, it is wise to document all communications and consider an independent indoor environmental assessment to verify the cause and required scope of work.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 6, 2026 12:45 am