Who is responsible for black mold from AC in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking for a while now, and I finally pulled the wardrobe away from the wall to find a huge patch of black mold spreading behind it. I’m in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle, and my landlord is saying it's from my AC usage and I need to handle it. I’m worried about my health and the damage to my furniture. Who is legally responsible for the mold removal and repair costs in this situation, me or the landlord?
Posted by Ryan Davis
Asked on April 6, 2026 4:55 am
Responsibility for mold removal in a Dubai rental depends on the source of the moisture. The landlord is legally responsible for the structure, including repairing the AC unit if its malfunction caused the leak and subsequent mold growth. You are typically responsible for damage resulting from your own negligence, like failing to report a known leak for an extended period.

Given Dubai's high humidity and year-round AC reliance, condensation issues are common. Document everything: take photos/videos of the leak, the mold, and all communications with your landlord. Report the issue in writing, emphasizing the AC leak as the root cause. For a case this severe, a professional inspection is critical to identify the mold species and the exact moisture source; this documented report is your strongest evidence in any dispute. If the landlord remains uncooperative, you can escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 10:15 am