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

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation stemming from a leaking AC unit is primarily determined by the source of the leak and the terms of your tenancy contract. According to standard rental laws in Dubai, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the main structure of the property, which includes fixed installations like the central AC system or the internal piping connected to a split unit. If the leak is due to a faulty AC unit, its aging components, or improper original installation, the repair and subsequent mold remediation fall under the landlord's obligation.

However, tenant responsibilities include operating appliances correctly and reporting issues in a timely manner. A delay of a couple of months in reporting a visible leak could be seen as a failure to mitigate damage, potentially making you liable for the cost of repairing the resultant mold growth on moveable items like the wardrobe, but not for the structural wall or the AC repair itself.

Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, condensation leaks are a frequent cause of mold. The black patch you describe indicates a significant moisture issue that requires immediate professional attention. We strongly recommend a certified mold inspection to accurately identify the moisture source, assess the extent of contamination, and determine liability. Attempting to clean it without addressing the root cause will lead to recurrence.

For a definitive assessment and a comprehensive remediation plan, please contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.