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

Based on the Dubai climate and UAE rental law, the responsibility for this mold issue is almost certainly your landlord's.

The primary cause you describe is a leaking AC unit, which is a structural maintenance issue and falls under the landlord's obligation to provide a habitable property under Law No. 26 of 2007. While tenant behavior (like extreme lack of ventilation) can be a contributing factor, your constant use of the AC actually helps to dehumidify the air, countering the landlord's claim. The persistent leak is introducing moisture directly into the building materials (wardrobe, skirting board), creating a perfect environment for mold growth in our humid climate, regardless of general ventilation.

Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord in writing about the leaking AC and the resulting mold, giving them a reasonable timeframe to rectify the issue. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate the problem.

For a definitive assessment and to protect your interests, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. A certified mold assessor can identify the exact species (e.g., the dangerous Stachybotrys, or "black mold") and determine the precise moisture source. This report provides crucial evidence of the root cause, which is essential if the dispute escalates.

Our team at Saniservice specializes in such diagnostic inspections and remediation. We can provide a legally valid report to present to your landlord. For immediate advice or to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.