Is my landlord responsible for AC leak and mold?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of the property's structural elements and key systems, which includes the central air conditioning unit and its associated drainage. The AC leak is a structural/mechanical issue that you, as a tenant, did not cause through misuse. Therefore, the responsibility to fix the leak itself falls squarely on the landlord.

However, the resulting mold on the carpet is a more complex issue. While the landlord must rectify the source of the moisture (the leak), the remediation of the mold growth might be considered your responsibility if it's deemed a result of not reporting the leak in a timely manner, allowing the problem to escalate. Since you've been wiping it, it shows you've been aware of the issue.

The black spots you're seeing are almost certainly active microbial growth. Simply wiping the surface is insufficient; the moisture has likely penetrated deep into the carpet and possibly the underlay and subfloor. This requires professional assessment and remediation to prevent health issues and further property damage.

Your immediate action should be:
1. Formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the AC leak and the subsequent mold growth, with clear photos. This creates a paper trail.
2. Insist they send a qualified AC technician to repair the leak at the source.
3. For the mold, recommend a certified mold inspection to determine the extent of the contamination. Surface cleaning is not enough.

Given the potential health risks and property damage, we strongly advise a professional evaluation. Our team can provide a comprehensive inspection and hygienization report, which can be crucial for discussions with your landlord.

For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.