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

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for 2 years and just noticed a large patch of black mold spreading from behind the wardrobe in the master bedroom, probably from a hidden AC leak. My husband's allergies have been terrible for months and I'm worried it's the cause. As tenants, are we responsible for the cost of professional mold removal, or is this something our landlord has to handle?
Posted by Richard Walker
Asked on April 28, 2026 10:25 am
Under Dubai rental law, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its core systems, including the AC and its drainage. A hidden AC leak that causes mold is typically considered a maintenance issue for the landlord to rectify.

As tenants, your responsibility is to report the issue in writing immediately. Notify your landlord or property management company with clear photos and a description of the mold and the suspected leak. This creates a formal record of the issue. Since your husband's allergies are being aggravated, mention the health impact in your communication.

For a large patch of mold, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the full extent and identify the exact moisture source. Remediation often involves fixing the AC leak first, then properly containing and removing the mold-affected materials to prevent spores from spreading. Simply wiping it is insufficient.

The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create perfect conditions for this type of hidden growth. While you wait for the landlord's response, improve air circulation in the room and keep the AC on to help manage humidity levels. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 1, 2026 1:59 am