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

The AC in my apartment seems to be leaking into the wall behind it in my bedroom, and now there's a huge black, fuzzy patch spreading from the unit. It's been getting worse since the humidity spiked a couple of weeks ago. My landlord is saying it's my fault for not running the AC constantly, but I'm worried about the health risks for my family. Who is legally responsible for the cleanup and repairs for something like this in a Dubai rental?
Posted by Tomasz Wisniewski
Asked on April 7, 2026 11:26 am
Based on Dubai's rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the responsibility for maintenance of major installations, including the central air conditioning system and the building's structure, falls squarely on the landlord. An AC unit leaking into the wall is a failure of the fixture itself, making the landlord legally obligated to address both the leak source and the resulting structural damage.

The black, fuzzy growth you describe is almost certainly a microbial colony, potentially including toxigenic species like Stachybotrys chartarum. The UAE's high humidity and condensation issues create a perfect environment for such rapid proliferation. Your landlord's assertion is incorrect; while constant AC operation can help control ambient humidity, it does not absolve them of their responsibility to maintain a functioning, non-leaking HVAC system, which is the root cause.

Your primary concern is correct: this presents a significant health risk. Spores from such a large contamination can become airborne, leading to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other serious health effects for your family.

You must take immediate action. First, formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) of the issue, citing the leak and the visible mold growth. Demand urgent professional assessment and remediation. For a case of this severity, a DIY approach is insufficient and hazardous.

I strongly recommend you contact a professional environmental service like Saniservice. Our certified experts can conduct a comprehensive inspection, including air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and the full extent of contamination hidden within the wall cavity. We then provide a detailed report and a scope of work for safe, compliant remediation, which you can present to your landlord. Do not delay; for your family's health and to protect your tenant rights, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate consultation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 8, 2026 12:18 pm