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

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, which includes the central air conditioning system. Since the AC unit is a fixed installation and the mold is on the vent and likely within the ductwork, this falls under their obligation for major repairs.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the black mold patches. Mention the persistent damp smell, as this indicates a systemic issue beyond a simple surface clean. The high humidity and constant AC use in our climate create ideal conditions for this problem, often due to clogged drain lines or poor insulation causing condensation inside the units.

For a documented case like this, especially with a child involved, a professional indoor environmental assessment is strongly recommended. This will identify the mold species and the moisture source. While the landlord must fix the AC unit itself, the responsibility for testing to confirm the environment is safe can be a grey area; check your tenancy contract for any specific clauses on air quality. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai. In the interim, ensure the room is well-ventilated and consider using a dehumidifier to help reduce moisture levels.