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

The AC in my bedroom in my Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment has been leaking a little onto the carpet for a while, but after the recent humidity, a big black mold patch has appeared on the wall behind the wardrobe. My landlord says it's from us running the AC too cold, but we keep it at 23 degrees. Who is legally responsible for fixing the mold and the wall damage – us or the landlord?
Posted by Rashid Jaber
Asked on April 30, 2026 9:00 am
The landlord is typically responsible for fixing both the mold and the wall damage, as the issue stems from a faulty AC unit—a structural component of the property. Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use make condensation and leaks a common problem, but the root cause is the appliance's malfunction, not your usage.

Setting your AC to 23°C is reasonable and does not cause leaks; those are due to a clogged drain pipe, low refrigerant, or improper installation. The landlord must arrange for an AC technician to repair the leak at its source. Simply cleaning the visible mold is insufficient if the moisture source isn't fixed, as it will return.

For a significant black mold patch, a professional inspection is advised to assess the full extent behind the wall and wardrobe. Document the damage and all communications with your landlord. If they refuse to act, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center (RDC), as landlords are obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. The repair process should include fixing the AC, remediating the mold, and restoring the damaged wall.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 2, 2026 6:27 am