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

Responsibility for the AC leak and resulting mold typically depends on the source of the problem, as defined by Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007). The landlord is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the main AC unit and its core components, including the chilled water piping if it's a central district cooling system. You, as the tenant, are generally responsible for the internal unit, such as cleaning the filters and ensuring it's used properly.

The black, speckled patches are a direct result of the prolonged leak, creating the constant dampness and high humidity that mold requires. In Dubai's climate, where AC runs year-round, a small leak can quickly lead to a significant mold issue due to condensation. This needs immediate attention.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord or building management in writing about the AC leak, as it is the root cause. They are obligated to fix it to prevent further property damage. For the existing mold, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the extent, as mold behind walls can spread unseen. Remediation is often the landlord's responsibility if the leak is from their maintained system, but this can be a point of negotiation.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can exacerbate the problem for susceptible individuals and often only bleaches the surface without killing the root colony. The repair cost for the leak itself should be covered by the landlord. For the mold remediation, clarity is needed on whether the damage resulted from a failure to repair a reported issue in a timely manner. Document all communication with your landlord regarding the leak from the beginning.