Who is responsible for mold from AC leak in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on UAE Civil Code and the standard rental contract (Ejari) provisions, the responsibility for mold remediation due to an AC leak is typically determined by the source of the moisture.

The moisture from the AC unit's condensate drain pipe is unequivocally a maintenance issue related to the building's fixed installation. In Dubai's high-humidity climate, AC systems are essential and their proper function is the landlord's responsibility to maintain. The landlord's claim of improper ventilation is a common deflection. While daily living contributes to ambient humidity, it does not cause a persistent water leak from a faulty pipe. The law generally places the obligation to maintain the property's structural integrity and fixed installations on the property owner.

Your immediate course of action should be as follows:
1. Document Everything: Take clear, dated photographs and videos of the mold growth and the leaking pipe. Communicate with the landlord in writing (email is best) to create a formal record of your complaint and their response.
2. Formal Request for Repair: Cite the issue as a failure of a fixed installation that is affecting habitability and health. Request immediate repairs to the AC drain line and professional mold remediation.
3. Seek Professional Validation: For legal and health reasons, a certified inspection is crucial. A detailed report from a company like Saniservice will definitively identify the moisture source and the mold species, providing the evidence needed to formally dispute the landlord's claim. This report is often necessary to escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department (DLD) if the landlord remains uncooperative.

Ignoring this can exacerbate health issues, particularly respiratory problems in children. For a definitive assessment and to force the landlord's hand, you need professional documentation.

I strongly recommend you contact our team at Saniservice for a comprehensive inspection and testing. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule. Our certified report will serve as the critical evidence to resolve the liability issue and ensure the remediation is done correctly to protect your family's health.