Who pays for AC leak and mold damage in Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle seems to be leaking into the wall behind it, and now there's a huge patch of black mold spreading there. It's been getting worse over the hot season as we've had the AC running constantly. Our one-year lease is up in a couple of months and we're worried about our security deposit. Who is legally responsible for fixing this and the cost of mold removal, us or the landlord?
Posted by Richard Jones
Asked on March 28, 2026 11:10 pm
Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the responsibility for structural maintenance and repairs of the property, including the building's fixed air conditioning system, falls upon the landlord. An AC unit leaking into the wall is considered a structural issue related to the building's installed systems. The resulting mold growth is a direct consequence of this failure.

The landlord is therefore legally obligated to address both the source of the leak (the AC repair) and the resultant mold remediation. This is crucial, as simply cleaning the visible mold without fixing the moisture source is ineffective and will lead to recurrence. However, it is important to note that if the damage was caused by tenant negligence, such as a failure to report a minor leak in a timely manner, liability could shift.

Given the conditions you describe—a significant black mold patch in Jumeirah Village Circle exacerbated by constant AC use during Dubai's hot and humid season—this is a serious issue that requires immediate professional attention. Black mold indicates a prolonged moisture problem and poses health risks. For your security deposit, documenting the issue correctly is key. We strongly recommend you do not attempt remediation yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and worsen contamination.

You must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately, with clear photos. We advise insisting on a professional mold inspection and IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) test from a certified company like ours to fully assess the extent of the hidden damage within the wall cavity and to create a scope of work for remediation. This report will be vital evidence for the landlord and for protecting your deposit.

For a comprehensive assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled to Dubai Municipality standards, please contact our specialists. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 1:42 pm