Who is responsible for mold from landlord's delayed AC repair?« Back to Previous Page

Under UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is typically responsible for addressing structural maintenance issues and resultant damage. Since the mold growth was a direct result of a leaking AC unit—a fixture they are obligated to maintain—the remediation responsibility generally falls on them, especially given the delayed repair.

Your first step should be to formally notify the landlord in writing, referencing the initial leak report and their delayed response. For documentation, take clear, dated photographs of the mold and any water damage. In Dubai's high humidity, mold can spread quickly into wall cavities from a persistent leak, making professional assessment crucial. A proper inspection can determine the extent of the infestation, as what's visible is often just a portion of the total growth.

If the landlord continues to refuse, you may need to file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai. They will examine the evidence, including your reported maintenance request and the timeline, to determine liability.

For a patch of this size, DIY cleaning is not advisable. Disturbing it can aerosolize spores throughout your home. Professional remediation is needed to safely remove the mold, treat the area to prevent regrowth, and verify with post-remediation testing that the space is safe. Keep any damaged personal items as evidence; their replacement cost may also be part of a claim if the landlord is found liable.