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

Under Dubai tenancy law, the landlord is typically responsible for repairing the building's structure and fixed systems, which includes the AC unit and its condensation drain line. Since the leak is hidden and originates from the AC system—a fixed appliance—responsibility for both fixing the leak and the resulting mold removal usually falls on the landlord.

The landlord's claim about improper ventilation is a common point of contention. However, Dubai's climate necessitates year-round AC use, which inherently reduces ventilation. Condensation leaks from AC units are a frequent issue here due to high humidity and often indicate a maintenance or installation fault with the system itself, not tenant behavior.

Your first step should be to formally notify the landlord in writing (email is best), detailing the issue and requesting immediate repairs and mold remediation. For a significant hidden leak, a professional inspection is critical to document the source and extent of the damage. This provides concrete evidence that the moisture source is structural.

If the landlord refuses to act, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center (RDC). They will assess the case based on evidence, and a professional inspection report demonstrating the AC leak is the root cause will be your strongest evidence. Do not attempt to remove extensive mold yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate the problem. Professional remediation is needed to safely address the mold and prevent recurrence once the leak is fixed.