Who is responsible for fixing the AC in my rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract provisions here in Dubai, the responsibility for repairing the AC unit in your rental apartment typically falls on the landlord. The law generally mandates that the landlord is obliged to maintain the property and its core systems, including air conditioning, in a condition that allows for proper habitation. Given the extreme climate, a functional AC is considered a fundamental requirement, not a luxury.

However, the specific terms of your tenancy contract can sometimes alter this. You should immediately review the "Maintenance Clause" in your contract. Some contracts stipulate that tenants are responsible for minor repairs below a certain cost threshold (e.g., AED 500), while major repairs and replacements remain the landlord's obligation. A loud rattling noise coupled with reduced cooling capacity suggests a potentially serious internal issue, like a failing compressor or a damaged fan motor, which is almost certainly a major repair.

Your first step should be a formal written notification to your landlord or property management company, detailing the issue. They will usually dispatch building maintenance for an initial assessment. If the issue is with the external chiller or central system, it's the building's responsibility. If the problem is isolated to your specific indoor unit (fan coil), it is the landlord's responsibility.

Given the symptoms you describe—worsening noise and loss of cooling—this requires a professional diagnosis. We strongly recommend an inspection to prevent a complete breakdown, especially heading into summer. Our certified technicians can identify the root cause and provide a formal report you can submit to your landlord.

For an immediate assessment, you can call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.