Who is liable for mold from AC leak in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its major systems, including the central air conditioning unit and its components. A leak from the AC unit itself is typically a maintenance issue for the landlord to address.

However, the timeline is a critical factor. If a tenant fails to report a known issue in a timely manner, they can be held partially liable for the resulting damage, such as the mold growth. Since the leak has been ongoing for months, the landlord may argue that your delay exacerbated the problem. The fuzzy, black growth indicates an active colony that has been allowed to establish itself.

Your first step is to formally report the issue in writing to the landlord or property management company immediately, stating the AC leak and the subsequent mold growth. For a situation of this scale, a professional inspection is strongly advised to document the moisture source and the extent of the mold, which often grows inside the wall cavity. This documented evidence from a specialist can be crucial for any dispute with the landlord.

If the landlord refuses to address it, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC) in Dubai. They will examine the evidence, including your communication history and any professional reports, to determine liability and apportion the cost of the necessary AC repair, mold remediation, and wall repairs.