Who is responsible for fixing AC and mold, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for fixing the AC and remediating the mold in your Al Barsha apartment falls on your landlord, according to Dubai rental law. The law (Law No. 26 of 2007) stipulates that landlords must maintain the property and ensure it is habitable, which includes the repair of major building systems like air conditioning. A leaking AC unit is a structural maintenance issue the owner must address.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the leak and the resulting mold growth, including clear photographs. They are obligated to arrange for the AC repair. For the mold, given its extent behind furniture and the associated health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the full scope. The landlord is typically responsible for the remediation of damage caused by their failure to maintain the property, such as this leak.

Dubai’s high humidity and year-round AC use create a perfect environment for mold when a unit malfunctions and creates constant dampness. Simply cleaning the visible mold is insufficient; the moisture source must be stopped first. Until repairs are made, improve ventilation in the room and consider using a dehumidifier to help reduce spore levels. For severe allergic reactions, a certified indoor health company can perform air and surface testing to identify the mold type and concentration, providing a scientific basis for the required remediation work.