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

Based on UAE rental law, specifically Law No. 26 of 2007, the landlord is overwhelmingly responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property, including the central air conditioning system and the building envelope. An AC leak constitutes a failure of the landlord's maintenance obligation. The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of that failure.

The tenant's responsibility is limited to reporting defects in a timely manner. While a delay in reporting can complicate matters, it does not automatically transfer the financial burden for structural repairs to you. The landlord's argument that the delay caused the damage is weak, as the leak itself is the root cause. The humid, year-round climate of Dubai means that any persistent moisture source, especially from an AC unit, will inevitably lead to mold proliferation.

For this situation, a professional mold inspection is critical. The black spots you see are likely only the surface manifestation; the moisture will have penetrated the wall, potentially causing structural damage and a more extensive, hidden mold colony. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels, assess the full extent of the infestation, and provide a detailed remediation protocol.

I strongly recommend you formally request in writing that your landlord arrange and pay for a professional inspection and remediation. For a certified assessment and a clear legal report, you can contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to document the issue correctly and protect your tenancy rights.