Is landlord responsible for mold in rental AC?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, and particularly in Dubai, the responsibility for mold in a rental property's AC system is a common point of contention. Based on Dubai's Rental Law and standard tenancy contract stipulations, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the property's structure and its core systems, which includes the central air conditioning and its ductwork. The argument that tenant usage is the cause is typically invalid, as year-round AC operation is a necessity due to the extreme heat and humidity, which inherently creates condensation and the perfect environment for microbial growth if the system is not properly maintained.

The presence of black, fuzzy growth and associated health symptoms like headaches strongly indicates a significant microbial contamination, likely including mold. This is a serious indoor air quality issue that requires immediate professional attention. A DIY cleaning is insufficient and can exacerbate the problem by dispersing spores.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue, citing your concerns and the visible evidence. Request that they arrange for a professional mold inspection and subsequent remediation. A certified company like Saniservice will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including air and surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels, and provide a detailed report. This scientific evidence is crucial.

If the landlord remains uncooperative, you may need to escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or the Rental Dispute Center. For a definitive inspection and a clear path to resolution, I recommend you contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an expert evaluation and a formal report that can be presented to your landlord.