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

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its major systems, including the central AC unit and its ducting. Since the issue appears to be a malfunctioning AC causing condensation and subsequent mold growth on the structural wall, this is typically the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the issue and including clear photographs of the black spots and the AC unit. The damp, earthy smell is a classic indicator of microbial growth within the system itself. In Dubai's high humidity, AC units that are not draining properly or are under-maintained are a primary source of indoor mold problems. The landlord should arrange for a qualified HVAC technician to service the AC to stop the moisture source and for a mold inspection to assess the wall contamination.

For a case with visible spreading and a musty odor, a professional inspection is advised to determine the extent. Remediation is not just wiping the spots; the wall may need drying and treatment to prevent recurrence. Keep records of all communication, as if the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). As a tenant, your responsibility is to report issues promptly and allow reasonable access for repairs.