Who fixes AC leak and mold in rental villa?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for maintenance of the property's main structural components and essential services, including the air conditioning system, falls upon the landlord. The AC leak you describe is a failure of the building's essential services, making the landlord legally obligated to repair it to ensure the property remains habitable.

The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of this water intrusion. The landlord is therefore also responsible for the remediation of the mold damage. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, detailing the issue and requesting urgent repairs and mold remediation. It is crucial to document the damage thoroughly with photographs and dated communications.

However, in the unique climate of Dubai, where high humidity and constant AC use can lead to condensation issues, tenants also have a responsibility to ensure adequate ventilation to prevent ambient mold growth. In this case, as the mold is a direct result of a structural leak and not tenant negligence, the cost and responsibility lie with the property owner.

Given that you are dealing with black mold, which can pose health risks and indicates a persistent moisture problem, we strongly recommend a professional assessment. DIY cleaning is not advised, as it often fails to address the hidden moisture source and can aerosolize harmful spores. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive inspection to identify the full extent of the moisture penetration and mold colonization, provide a detailed report for your landlord, and execute a proper remediation protocol. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.