Who is responsible for AC leak and black mold cleanup?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the responsibility for maintenance and structural repairs of a rental property falls squarely on the landlord. This includes the maintenance of essential systems like air conditioning. The AC unit leaking for months is a maintenance failure, and the resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that unresolved issue. While the landlord's argument about AC usage is common, Dubai's extreme climate (with high ambient humidity and rapid condensation) means AC systems are designed for this environment; a properly functioning unit should not leak excessively due to normal operational pauses.

The presence of a significant black mold patch indicates a serious moisture problem that requires professional assessment. Self-cleaning is not advised, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores, spreading the contamination and posing health risks. The remediation process involves identifying the moisture source (the leaking AC), isolating the affected area, removing contaminated porous materials like carpet and drywall, and performing specialized antimicrobial treatment. The AC system itself will likely need repair and a thorough internal cleaning to prevent reinfection.

For an official resolution, you should formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue, citing your rights under the tenancy law. We strongly recommend you get a professional inspection and detailed report to establish the cause and scope. Our certified team at Saniservice can provide a comprehensive assessment and a remediation quote, which is often necessary to resolve liability disputes with landlords. For immediate advice or to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.