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

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit onto the carpet for the last couple of months, and now I’m seeing a big patch of black mold spreading out from the wall behind the unit. The smell is really strong and my landlord is saying it's my fault for not reporting the leak sooner. I’m in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle. Who is legally responsible for fixing this and paying for the cleanup?
Posted by Piotr Petit
Asked on March 27, 2026 7:50 pm
This is a common and serious issue in Dubai, particularly in humid climates like JVC where AC units run year-round and condensation leaks can quickly lead to mold proliferation. From a technical standpoint, the primary cause is the persistent moisture from the AC leak, which created the ideal environment for mold spores, ever-present in our atmosphere, to colonize. The strong smell indicates active microbial volatile organic compound (MVOC) production, confirming a significant infestation that likely extends beyond the visible patch into the carpet backing and potentially the wall cavity.

Legally, under UAE tenancy law, the responsibility for maintenance of major fixtures, including the central air conditioning system, typically falls upon the landlord. Your responsibility as a tenant is generally to report issues in a timely manner. While the landlord may argue that delayed reporting exacerbated the problem, their obligation to provide a habitable property and maintain the AC unit is fundamental. The remediation required is not a simple cleaning; it involves professional assessment, containment, removal of contaminated porous materials like carpet and drywall, and hygienization of the area to ensure spore counts return to safe levels.

For a situation of this magnitude, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. We strongly recommend you engage a certified mold inspection company like Saniservice to conduct a comprehensive assessment. Our technicians use thermal imaging and moisture meters to map the full extent of the water damage and collect air and surface samples for laboratory analysis. This provides an objective, scientific report that can be used to definitively determine the cause and scope, which is crucial for any discussions with your landlord regarding liability and the necessary scope of remediation work.

For immediate assistance and to schedule a professional inspection, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 4:50 am