Is my Dubai landlord responsible for AC wall mold?« Back to Previous Page

The black patch is likely mold growth caused by the AC condensate leak, a common issue in Dubai's humid climate where AC units run constantly. You've correctly identified the source—the leak must be fixed first, or the mold will return.

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for repairs to the main structure of the property and its core systems, which includes the fixed AC unit and the building envelope (walls). Since the leak originates from the AC and is damaging the wall, this is typically the landlord's obligation to rectify. You should formally notify them in writing about the leak and the resulting mold, as this is a health and safety issue that affects the property's habitability.

However, the responsibility for the mold remediation itself can be less clear-cut. While the landlord must fix the leak, the cleanup of the mold growth might fall to you if it's deemed a maintenance issue. Given that it's spreading and has a damp smell, this indicates a persistent moisture problem that requires professional assessment. A simple wipe-down is insufficient and can actually spread spores.

For a case like this, a professional inspection is advised to determine the full extent of the moisture damage behind the wall and to properly identify the mold type. This provides documented evidence for your landlord and ensures the remediation is done correctly, preventing future recurrence and potential health impacts from prolonged exposure. Start by notifying your landlord of the leak and the professional assessment recommendation.