Is landlord responsible for mold with constant AC use?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation depends on identifying the root cause. If the mold is due to a structural issue like a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a building envelope defect, it is unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to repair the source and remediate the damage under standard tenancy contracts.

However, the constant use of AC complicates this. While the AC itself is a landlord-provided appliance, its operation can contribute to the problem if not managed correctly. In a humid climate like Dubai, AC units must be powerful enough to effectively remove moisture from the air. An undersized, poorly maintained, or faulty AC unit that fails to control humidity can be the root cause, placing responsibility back on the landlord for providing a habitable environment.

If the AC is functioning correctly but was set at a very high temperature or not used in conjunction with dehumidification modes, leading to excessive condensation on cold walls behind furniture, the tenant might be deemed responsible for the moisture generation. The key is the origin of the moisture.

Given the visible spread and strong musty odor you describe, this is a serious case requiring professional diagnosis. You should formally notify your landlord in writing immediately, with photos. Request a professional inspection to determine the moisture source. An expert will use moisture meters and thermal cameras to distinguish a building defect from an indoor humidity issue. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can spread spores. The remediation process must address the root cause; otherwise, the mold will simply return.