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

Under Dubai's rental law, your landlord is responsible for fixing the AC leak and the resulting structural damage, including mold remediation. The AC unit and its components are part of the property's essential systems, and their maintenance falls on the property owner. You, as the tenant, are responsible for reporting the issue in a timely manner.

The persistent high humidity we experience here acts like fuel for mold, especially when combined with a constant moisture source like an AC leak. That black patch spreading behind the wardrobe is a clear sign of a significant and active colony that needs immediate attention.

Document everything now. Take clear photos and videos of the leak's origin point, the extent of the water damage, and the mold growth. Send a formal written notification to your landlord or property management company, outlining the issue and requesting urgent repairs. Keep a record of all communication. For a case of this severity, a professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of the hidden damage within the wall cavity and to create a proper remediation plan. The repair process should address the leak first, then the mold, and finally the damaged walls.

While the landlord covers the repair of the leak and the building structure, check your tenancy contract for any clauses about contents or temporary relocation. The cost to replace personal property, like the wardrobe if it's yours, may be a separate discussion. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.