Who fixes black mold near AC vent in my apartment?« Back to Previous Page

We've been in our Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment for two years and just noticed a bunch of black spots spreading from the corner of our bedroom ceiling. It's right next to the AC vent and has gotten worse since the humidity really kicked in last month. Who is supposed to deal with this, me or my landlord, and what's the first step I should take?
Posted by Tomasz Dubois
Asked on April 20, 2026 9:40 pm
In Dubai, the landlord is typically responsible for structural repairs, including fixing the source of moisture causing mold. You are responsible for reporting it promptly. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing (email is best), including clear photos of the black spots and the AC vent. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores.

The location next to the AC vent is a major clue. In our climate, this is often caused by condensation from a poorly insulated cooling line inside the ceiling void or a blocked condensate drain pan overflowing. The high humidity accelerates growth once moisture is present. A professional inspection is necessary to identify the exact moisture source, as simply wiping the visible mold will not stop it from returning.

For a case that is spreading, a proper assessment involves more than a visual check. An inspector should use a moisture meter on the walls and ceiling and may recommend air or surface sampling to identify the mold type, which determines the remediation protocol. The landlord should arrange for both the leak repair by an AC technician and the mold remediation by a certified company to ensure it’s handled safely and effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 23, 2026 7:20 pm