Who is responsible for mold from a leaking AC?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai's high-humidity climate, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from a leaking AC unit is primarily dictated by the rental contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law.

The legal principle typically places responsibility on the landlord for the property's structural integrity and maintenance of major fixtures, which includes the central AC system and the building envelope. Since the mold is a direct result of a leaking AC—a pre-existing installation and a maintenance issue—the landlord is generally obligated to address both the source of the problem (repairing or replacing the AC unit) and the resultant damage (the mold remediation). Your tenancy contract may have specific clauses, but it cannot override the foundational provisions of the Dubai Rental Law.

However, a tenant's responsibility is to report issues in a timely manner. Since you have observed the leak and the mold growth over the last month, it is critical to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Delaying this notification could potentially complicate liability.

For a case like this, a professional inspection is strongly advised. The visible "black mold" is only the tip of the iceberg; spores likely exist within the wall cavity. A certified inspector from a company like Saniservice can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and extent of contamination, and create a scope of work for proper remediation, which will be necessary documentation for your landlord.

Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and spread the contamination. For expert assessment and resolution, it is best to contact professionals. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection and get a formal report for your landlord.