Who is responsible for mold inspection from AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC unit in the bedroom closet has been constantly leaking for a while, and now I’m seeing black spots spreading on the wall behind our wardrobe. We’ve been in this Discovery Gardens studio for almost a year and the humidity has been awful. Who is responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection, me or the landlord, especially since the leak seems to be from the AC?
Posted by Minho Phan
Asked on April 3, 2026 8:51 pm
Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract stipulations, the responsibility for a mold inspection and remediation stemming from an AC leak is typically borne by the landlord. The AC unit is considered a permanent fixture and part of the property's core systems, making its maintenance the landlord's legal obligation. The constant leaking you describe constitutes a structural or maintenance defect that has led to property damage (the mold growth on the wall). Your responsibility as a tenant is to report such issues promptly, which you have done.

Given the conditions in Discovery Gardens and the high humidity levels we experience year-round in Dubai, a persistent water leak from an AC unit creates an ideal environment for prolific mold growth, which is what the black spots indicate. This is a serious case that requires immediate professional attention. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize the spores and spread the contamination throughout your studio.

A proper inspection involves more than a visual assessment; it requires moisture mapping with specialized tools like thermal imaging cameras and hygrometers to determine the full extent of water intrusion, followed by air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and spore concentration levels. This technical report is crucial for definitively establishing the cause and scope, which the landlord will need to address the problem at its source.

We strongly recommend you formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, citing the AC leak and resultant mold, and insist they arrange for a certified mold inspection. For a comprehensive assessment and a detailed report that meets Dubai Municipality standards, you can contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 9:44 am