Who is responsible for mold from AC leak, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for mold remediation and repairs from an AC leak in Dubai typically falls on the landlord or building management, not the tenant. According to common tenancy law principles in the UAE, the property owner is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the building and its core systems, including the central air conditioning and its components. The leak itself is a maintenance issue for the owner to fix.

Your immediate step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of both the leak and the mold growth. This creates a dated record of your report. For a leak ongoing for months, the underlying concrete slab may have significant moisture retention, which is a serious concern in Dubai's humid climate where mold can proliferate rapidly.

While waiting for their response, avoid disturbing the mold. Do not attempt to bleach it yourself, as this can aerosolize spores and often fails to address the moisture source. The landlord should arrange for a professional inspection to assess the full extent of the damage behind the wall and under the flooring. The repair process must include fixing the AC leak, properly drying the structure, and then remediating the mold to prevent recurrence. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).