Is landlord responsible for black mold from AC unit?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the landlord is typically responsible for resolving black mold caused by a faulty AC unit, as it falls under their duty to maintain the property's structure and essential systems. The high humidity, especially during summer, causes condensation that leads to mold when an AC unit is leaking, poorly insulated, or has a blocked drain line. This moisture intrusion is a building maintenance issue.

First, notify your landlord or property management company in writing, including clear photos of the mold and its location relative to the AC. Under typical tenancy contracts, they are obligated to address the source of the moisture, not just the visible mold. They should send a qualified AC technician to inspect and repair any leaks or drainage problems from the unit.

Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper cleaning can disturb and spread spores. For a small, contained area, you can carefully wipe it with a microfiber cloth and a diluted detergent solution, but this is only a temporary measure if the moisture source remains. The priority is stopping the water intrusion.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference Dubai's rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007) which govern tenant and landlord responsibilities for maintenance. For verification and to ensure the mold is properly remediated after the leak is fixed, a professional inspection with lab analysis can identify the species and confirm the environment is returned to a healthy state.