Is mold causing our illness, landlord or tenant responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The black and greenish speckles you describe are very likely mold, and the damp, earthy smell is a classic indicator of microbial growth. Your persistent stuffy noses and headaches are common symptoms of exposure to mold spores, which are blown directly into your living space by the AC unit.

In Dubai's humid climate, AC systems are a prime location for mold due to constant condensation. The standing water in the drip pan and on cooling coils, combined with dust on the filter, creates an ideal environment for growth. This is a frequent issue in JVC and other communities where AC runs year-round.

Regarding responsibility, the Dubai Rental Law typically places the maintenance and repair of major building systems, including central air conditioning, on the landlord. This issue concerns the habitability and health safety of the property, which is their obligation. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos of the mold. They are generally responsible for arranging and paying for the professional inspection and remediation of the AC system itself.

However, the regular replacement or cleaning of the AC filter is almost always the tenant's responsibility, as stipulated in most standard tenancy contracts. You should check your contract's maintenance clause for specifics.

Given the visible growth and your physical symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised. DIY cleaning is not sufficient for systemic contamination. Proper remediation requires specialized equipment to safely clean the entire ductwork and internal components, not just the visible spots. A reputable company will provide before-and-after testing to verify the spore count has been reduced to a safe level.