Urgent: Is my AC mold a landlord emergency?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah seems to be blowing out a damp, earthy smell, and I just found a patch of black spots on the wall behind the bedroom wardrobe. It's been incredibly humid for the last few weeks. Is this something I need to get my landlord to deal with immediately, or can it wait until after the weekend?
Posted by Yuna Inoue
Asked on April 11, 2026 9:51 am
Based on your description of a damp, earthy smell from the AC and visible black spots on the wall, this is a strong indication of active mold growth, which should be treated as an urgent matter. The high humidity we've been experiencing in Dubai creates the perfect environment for mold, particularly within AC units and on cool surfaces where condensation forms, such as behind furniture.

Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, including the air conditioning system, to ensure it is habitable. A malfunctioning AC unit that is promoting mold growth falls under this obligation. You should notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the issue and including photographs. This creates a formal record of your request for urgent remediation.

However, it is not advisable to wait for the landlord to arrange an assessment. Mold can begin to affect indoor air quality and potentially cause health issues with prolonged exposure. We strongly recommend you contact a professional mold inspection company like Saniservice. Our certified experts can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including air and surface sampling, to identify the species and extent of the contamination. This objective, third-party report is invaluable for ensuring the landlord completes a proper remediation, not just a superficial cleaning.

For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt to disturb the mold yourself, as this can release a high concentration of spores into your living space.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 13, 2026 10:32 am