Who is responsible for AC leak and mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a little for a couple of months, but my landlord hasn't fixed it. Now, I’m starting to see black spots on the wall behind the curtain and my allergies have been acting up. Who is legally responsible here in Dubai for fixing the AC leak and for cleaning up the mold – me or the property owner?
Posted by Hendrik Wagner
Asked on March 12, 2026 3:54 am
Based on UAE Civil Code and the standard Dubai rental contract (Ejari), the responsibility for structural maintenance, including the repair of fixed air conditioning units and the resulting damage, falls squarely on the property owner or landlord.

The AC leak is a maintenance issue for the landlord to rectify. The subsequent mold growth is direct property damage resulting from that unrepaired leak. You, as the tenant, are responsible for informing the landlord of the issue in writing (email is best for a paper trail) and allowing reasonable time for them to address it. If they fail to act, you can file a formal complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai.

However, from a health and remediation perspective, this is a serious situation. The black spots indicate active microbial growth, which is the direct cause of your allergy symptoms. Mold from AC leaks often includes species like Cladosporium or even Stachybotrys, which can cause significant respiratory issues.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself with bleach, as this will not address the root moisture problem and can exacerbate spore release. The wall cavity is likely contaminated and requires professional assessment and remediation to ensure it is properly dried, treated, and restored to a safe condition. I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection to document the extent of the contamination for your landlord and for your health.

For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, you can call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 14, 2026 10:04 am