Musty AC Causing Health Issues: Landlord's Responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The musty smell and your symptoms are strong indicators of microbial growth, likely mold, within the AC unit. The combination of Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC use creates a perfect environment for condensation and mold in ducts and drip pans, especially if there's a clogged drain line.

In Dubai, the landlord is legally responsible for maintaining the central AC system, including the ductwork, as per the Rental Law. You should formally notify them in writing about the issue and your health symptoms, requesting a professional inspection and cleaning. They are obligated to address problems that affect health and habitability.

Given your persistent sinus and cough issues, you should act quickly. Do not wait. Document everything: take photos of the black dust, note the dates of your complaints, and keep copies of all communication with the landlord. This protects your rights if the response is delayed.

A proper remediation involves more than a simple spray. The process should include a full system inspection, cleaning of the evaporator coils and drip pan, sanitization of ductwork, and verification that the drain line is clear. For health concerns this clear, a company that can provide before-and-after testing to confirm the reduction of contaminants is advisable. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai.