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

The corner behind our bedroom wardrobe in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has had this damp, dark patch for a couple of months now. I just pulled the wardrobe out and the entire back of it and the wall are covered in fuzzy black mold. The AC has been constantly running but I think the dehumidifier might be broken. Is this something I need to fix myself, or is the landlord responsible for the cleanup and checking the AC unit?
Posted by Ewa Wagner
Asked on April 15, 2026 2:15 am
Under the Dubai Tenancy Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, which includes the air conditioning system. A broken AC dehumidifier function is a maintenance issue for the landlord, as it is a core component of the unit. You should formally notify them in writing about the mold growth and its clear link to the malfunctioning AC, requesting both remediation and repair.

For a case this extensive, a professional inspection is necessary to assess the wall's integrity and the AC's performance. The constant humidity in Dubai, especially during summer, turns a faulty AC into a mold incubator. Remediation involves more than wiping the surface; the wall may need specialized drying and treatment to prevent regrowth.

While you await the landlord's response, improve ventilation in the room immediately. Keep the AC off if it's not dehumidifying properly, as it may be recirculating spores. Document everything with photos and dates—this is crucial evidence for your communication. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 16, 2026 3:44 pm