Who is responsible for AC-caused mold removal, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility typically falls on the landlord, as the issue originates from a faulty fixture—the leaking AC unit—which is their property to maintain. Under standard Dubai tenancy contracts, landlords are responsible for the structural integrity of the property and maintaining major installed appliances like AC units. A persistent leak is a maintenance failure that causes property damage.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best), detailing the leak and the resulting mold growth. Mention that the mold is a direct consequence of the AC fault, not general dirt. It is reasonable to request they arrange for both the AC repair and a professional mold inspection to assess the extent. In Dubai's high humidity, what's visible on the wall is often just the surface of a larger moisture problem within the wall cavity.

If they refuse, you can reference RERA's guidelines, which generally hold landlords accountable for repairs necessitated by normal wear and tear or faulty installations. For a definitive assessment, a professional inspection can identify the mold species and moisture source, providing a documented report. This scientific evidence is powerful for clarifying responsibility, as it proves the root cause. While basic cleaning might be a tenant's duty, remediation stemming from a landlord's maintenance issue is not. Escalation can involve filing a case with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center.