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

My kids' bedroom in our Marina apartment has had this persistent damp smell for the last two months, and I just found patches of black mold behind their wardrobe. I've been running the dehumidifier constantly but the AC unit in that room always feels clogged and leaky. Is the landlord responsible for the mold remediation and fixing the AC, or is this on me to handle?
Posted by Varun Reddy
Asked on April 18, 2026 5:10 am
Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the property's main structure and essential services, which includes the central AC system and any structural issues causing water infiltration. A leaking AC unit that creates persistent dampness is a maintenance issue for the landlord to rectify.

Your immediate responsibility is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing about both the mold growth and the malfunctioning AC unit. Document everything with clear photos and dates. This notification is a critical first step. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai.

Given the climate, the AC is likely the primary moisture source. A constantly leaking or clogged unit creates the perfect humid environment for mold growth behind furniture and inside walls. Simply running a dehumidifier treats the symptom, not the cause.

For a case like this in a Marina apartment, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the exact source of the AC leak and the full extent of the mold, which often spreads unseen. The remediation process must address both the moisture source and the biological growth to be effective. You can request the landlord arrange this; a reputable inspection with verifiable lab results will provide the evidence needed to clarify responsibilities and required repairs.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 21, 2026 3:20 am