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

Based on Dubai's rental law and the specifics of your situation, the responsibility for mold removal due to a leaking AC unit in your Marina apartment almost certainly falls on the landlord.

The core issue is the source of the moisture. If the AC unit itself is leaking due to a faulty installation, blocked drain line, or mechanical failure, this is a maintenance issue related to the property's fixtures. According to standard tenancy contracts in Dubai (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes addressing structural issues and the proper functioning of provided appliances like AC units. Your usage of the AC within normal parameters does not constitute negligence if the leak is due to an internal fault.

The Dubai climate is a significant aggravating factor. The extreme humidity and condensation provide the perfect environment for mold, like the black spots you're seeing (likely Stachybotrys or Cladosporium), to proliferate rapidly from any persistent water source. This is not a superficial cleaning task; the mold has likely penetrated the wall's porous materials and contaminated your belongings.

Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, emphasizing it is a maintenance-related leak causing property damage. For a definitive assessment and to strengthen your position, I highly recommend a professional indoor environmental inspection. A certified mold assessor can identify the exact species and source of moisture, providing an official report that documents the cause and extent of the contamination.

For expert inspection, testing, and a comprehensive remediation plan to safely remove the mold and address the root cause, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. This professional documentation is often crucial in resolving tenancy disputes.