Who is responsible for AC leak mold in my apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be leaking into the wall of our master bedroom in Silicon Oasis, and now a huge patch of black mold is spreading behind the wardrobe. We've tried wiping it, but the dampness and that weird smell keep coming back within days. My landlord is saying it's a maintenance issue for the building, but the building management says it's the AC unit, which is the landlord's responsibility. Who is legally required to handle and pay for the mold removal in this situation?
Posted by Jan Durand
Asked on April 7, 2026 7:52 am
Based on the scenario you've described, the responsibility for the mold removal and addressing the underlying cause is a legal matter between the tenant and landlord, governed by UAE rental law. The primary issue is the source of the water intrusion.

Legally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structure and ensuring it is habitable. This includes the integrity of the building envelope and the fixed installations. If the AC leak is originating from the internal unit, its connecting pipes, or the drain pan—all of which are part of the leased property—then the responsibility for repair and subsequent mold remediation falls squarely on the landlord.

However, if the leak is determined to be from the central chilled water supply lines (the building's main AC system) within the walls or from a neighboring apartment, then the building management may be liable. The persistent dampness and rapid mold regrowth you describe indicate a continuous moisture source that must be professionally identified.

In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and year-round AC operation, condensation issues are common but dangerous. The black mold you see is a significant health hazard and indicates a serious, ongoing problem. Simply wiping the surface is ineffective as the mold hyphae penetrate deep into the building materials.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, emphasizing the health risk and property damage. We strongly recommend you insist on a professional mold inspection to definitively identify the moisture source and the extent of contamination. This expert report will be crucial evidence for determining financial responsibility.

For a definitive assessment and a legally compliant remediation plan, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. We can provide the necessary documentation to resolve the liability issue with your landlord and building management.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 5:00 pm