Who is responsible for black mold cleanup by AC?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai tenancy law, the landlord is generally responsible for addressing the underlying cause of the mold, which is the water leak and resulting moisture intrusion. You are responsible for routine cleaning and general maintenance, but a persistent leak and structural mold growth fall under the landlord's obligation to provide a habitable property.

The constant AC use is likely a symptom, not the cause. Dubai's high humidity, especially during summer months, causes significant condensation within AC units and ductwork if they are not draining properly. The leak you've identified is the primary issue, as it creates the constant damp environment mold needs to grow. While ventilation helps, it cannot overcome an active water leak.

For a case involving health symptoms and visible black mold, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the exact moisture source and extent of the growth. The inspection report will document the cause, which is crucial for discussing remediation with the landlord. They are obligated to fix the leak at the source, repair any damaged structures, and conduct proper mold remediation to ensure it does not return.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and your health concerns, requesting immediate repair of the leak and professional mold removal. If they are unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai. For your family's health, consider an independent indoor environmental assessment to confirm the mold type and air quality, which provides documented evidence of the problem.