Who is responsible for black mold from an AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from an AC leak is typically determined by the source of the problem. According to standard tenancy contract principles and the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and its core systems, including the central air conditioning unit and its associated drainage. The water leakage from the AC is a maintenance issue for the property owner to rectify.

As the tenant, your responsibility generally lies in informing the landlord or property management company of the issue promptly and in writing, which you have effectively done by discovering it. You are also expected to have used the property in a tenant-like manner, which includes regularly changing AC filters and not obstructing units, which can contribute to condensation issues. The unique Dubai climate, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on AC, makes systems prone to condensation blockages, but the repair of the unit itself falls to the landlord.

However, the black mold you describe is a serious secondary contaminant. A patch spreading from the skirting board indicates potential water intrusion into the wall cavity, which requires professional assessment. DIY cleaning is strongly discouraged for health reasons and because improper remediation can spread spores. The landlord should arrange for a certified mold inspection to determine the full extent of the contamination. The remediation process itself—including containment, air scrubbing, removal of affected porous materials (like damaged drywall and skirting boards), and hygienization—is a specialized task.

For a situation of this severity, we recommend you contact your landlord immediately and insist on a professional evaluation. Our company, Saniservice, provides certified mold inspection and remediation services in line with Dubai Municipality standards. We can provide a detailed report for the landlord outlining the cause, extent, and required corrective actions. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate assessment.