Is my landlord responsible for lback mold repair?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent defects in construction or major systems like plumbing and AC. If the black mold is a direct result of a leaking AC unit or a structural moisture issue, the repair and remediation are typically the landlord's responsibility.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, including photos of the mold and the AC drip. This creates a necessary paper trail. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, combined with a continuously dripping AC unit, creates an ideal environment for mold to thrive on ceilings and behind walls.

For a minor, surface-level patch, a DIY clean with a vinegar or hydrogen peroxide solution can be a temporary measure. However, given the mold is spreading and there is an active moisture source from the AC, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. The mold you see is often just the surface manifestation; the underlying moisture problem and any hidden growth within the ceiling cavity need to be identified and resolved to prevent recurrence. A certified mold inspector can provide a documented assessment of the cause and extent, which is valuable evidence if you need to escalate the issue with your landlord.