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

Based on your description of a persistent AC leak leading to visible black mold growth and correlating health symptoms, this is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.

In the UAE, specifically under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), the landlord is unequivocally responsible for maintaining the property's main structural components and central systems, which includes the fixed air conditioning unit and the structural integrity of the walls. An AC leak is a failure of the HVAC system, and the resulting moisture intrusion and mold damage are a direct consequence of that failure. Your responsibility for "minor maintenance" typically refers to tasks like replacing lightbulbs or cleaning AC filters, not remedying systemic leaks and the significant biological contamination they cause.

The black, fuzzy patches you describe are a strong indicator of active growth, likely exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity, which provides a constant source of moisture for mold. The congestion you're experiencing is a common health effect of exposure to mold spores.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold without proper containment and remediation protocols will aerosolize spores, significantly increasing your exposure and contaminating other areas. The leak must be fixed at its source first.

You must formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue immediately, requesting they rectify the AC leak and address the mold damage. For a case of this nature, we strongly recommend a professional assessment. Our certified inspectors can conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the full extent of the contamination, identify the mold species, and provide a detailed report that can be used to ensure the landlord completes the remediation to professional standards.

For immediate assistance, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.