Who pays for AC leak mold cleanup, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai tenancy law, the landlord is generally responsible for structural repairs and maintenance of fixed installations like the AC system and its associated drainage. Since you reported the leak months ago and it was not addressed, the resulting mold damage is their responsibility to remediate. Your first step is to formally notify them in writing, referencing your previous communication.

The urgency is high. Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold to spread rapidly behind walls and into the building's structure, even if the visible patch seems contained. This is not a surface cleaning task; improper removal can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem.

For a leak of this duration, a professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of the damage. Remediation involves containing the area, safely removing contaminated materials like drywall and insulation, and addressing the moisture source—the AC leak. Simply wiping the visible mold is insufficient.

If the landlord continues to be unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. Document everything: your initial report, all communications, and clear photos/videos of the leak and mold growth. The RDC can issue an order for the landlord to complete the repairs and cover all associated costs, including professional mold remediation.