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

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking for over a month, and now I'm seeing black mold spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. My landlord says it's the AC maintenance company's fault, but the maintenance guys say the building's drainage is the issue. Who is legally responsible for fixing the wall and cleaning the mold, me or the landlord?
Posted by Sanjay Menon
Asked on March 16, 2026 12:44 pm
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, the responsibility for major maintenance and structural repairs falls squarely on the landlord. This includes issues with the building's core infrastructure, such as the central AC drainage system, and the resulting damage to the property's structure, like your mold-infested wall.

The leaking AC presents a classic dispute. While the landlord is responsible for providing and maintaining the property in a habitable condition, the AC maintenance company is contractually obligated to service the unit correctly. The critical factor is identifying the source of the leak. If it is due to a faulty installation or poor maintenance of the internal unit, the maintenance company is liable. However, if the issue is a blocked or damaged main drainage pipe within the building's walls—which is part of the building's infrastructure—this is unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to rectify.

The presence of black mold is a serious health hazard and indicates a prolonged moisture issue. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize toxic spores. The wall and wardrobe likely require professional mold remediation to ensure it is safely removed and the area is properly dried and treated to prevent recurrence.

Given the conflicting reports, you require a professional, independent inspection to determine the exact source of the water intrusion. This evidence is crucial for formally notifying your landlord of their obligation to fix the issue. For a definitive assessment and to resolve the contamination safely, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate inspection and detailed report.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 18, 2026 1:18 pm