Who is responsible for landlord's AC mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and common tenancy law practice in Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation and AC repair in a rental property typically falls on the landlord, provided the tenant can demonstrate proper maintenance.

The core legal principle hinges on maintenance. You state you have the AC serviced annually, which is a critical point. If you can provide receipts from a certified HVAC technician for this annual maintenance, it strongly supports your case that the mold growth is due to a inherent issue with the unit (like a faulty drain line, low refrigerant causing excess condensation, or poor insulation) and not tenant negligence. Landlords are responsible for the structural integrity of the property and the major systems within it, including the central AC.

The climate in Dubai is a major contributing factor. Year-round AC operation combined with high humidity creates a perfect environment for mold if a unit is not functioning optimally. The mold behind the filter indicates a significant moisture problem within the AC cassette itself, which is almost certainly an issue with the unit's operation, not a lack of filter changes.

Your immediate action should be to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best), detailing the issue and attaching photographs of the mold and copies of your AC maintenance receipts. Clearly state that the mold poses a potential health risk and requires immediate professional remediation to prevent further property damage.

For a situation this severe, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. We strongly recommend you call a certified mold inspector like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) to conduct a comprehensive assessment. This official report, which will identify the moisture source and the species of mold, becomes a powerful document to definitively establish liability and scope of work required for safe, effective remediation and repair. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxic spores throughout your apartment.