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

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 and its amendments, the landlord is almost always responsible for the repair of structural issues and maintenance of permanent fixtures, which includes the central air conditioning system and the building envelope. An AC unit leaking for over a month is a clear case of a maintenance failure of a provided appliance, making the landlord legally obligated to fix the leak at its source.

Their claim about inadequate ventilation is a common but often incorrect deflection. While tenant negligence (like never using the AC) can be a factor, Dubai's climate makes year-round AC use a necessity for controlling humidity, not a luxury. The primary cause of the mold is the persistent moisture from the leak, not occupant behavior. The black spots indicate active growth, which requires professional remediation to prevent health risks and structural damage.

You should formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best) of the issue again, citing the law, and request immediate repairs. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai. For a case of this severity, I strongly recommend a professional inspection to document the source of the moisture and the extent of the contamination. Our teams at Saniservice are certified to provide detailed reports that can serve as evidence and we perform complete remediation. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can spread toxic spores. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.