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

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its core systems, which typically includes the central AC unit and ductwork. This type of hidden mold growth, likely caused by a condensation leak or compromised insulation within the AC system, falls under that category of major maintenance.

However, your responsibility as a tenant is to report the issue immediately in writing to your landlord or property management company. This creates a formal record of notification. The damp smell and visible growth behind the wardrobe, exacerbated by our high summer humidity, indicate an active problem that needs professional diagnosis. A surface wipe won't solve it if the source is inside the ductwork or the unit itself.

For your health and to protect the property, insist on a proper inspection. This isn't just a cleaning issue; it requires identifying and repairing the moisture source, then remediating the mold. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference your right to a habitable property and may file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai. For your own safety, do not attempt to handle significant mold growth yourself, as disturbing it can spread spores. A professional assessment with lab testing can identify the species and scope, which provides the evidence needed to ensure the landlord addresses it correctly.