Should my landlord fix AC-caused black mold?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, your landlord is responsible for fixing both the AC leak and the resulting black mold. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords must maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes ensuring the proper functioning of essential utilities like air conditioning. Since the mold is a direct result of a faulty AC unit, the remediation falls under their obligation for major repairs.

The persistent humidity we have here accelerates mold growth from any moisture source. You should notify your landlord in writing immediately, detailing the leak and mold growth with clear photos. This creates a formal record. For a case like this, where the mold is visible and has spread on a wall, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the full extent, as mold can grow inside the wall cavity behind the surface. A proper inspection involves moisture mapping and often air or surface sampling to identify the species, which determines the remediation approach.

Do not attempt to remove it yourself with bleach or other store-bought solutions. This will only temporarily remove the visible stain and can disturb the spores, potentially making the air quality worse. Incomplete removal will lead to rapid regrowth as long as the moisture source remains. The landlord must first fix the AC leak at its source to stop the moisture, then address the mold damage. For a proper, permanent fix, the remediation process should include containment of the area, HEPA vacuuming, antimicrobial application, and verification that the space has been returned to a normal fungal ecology.