Who pays for black mold near AC vent: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, responsibility typically depends on the cause. Landlords are generally responsible for fixing issues related to the building's structure or inherent defects, like a leaking roof or faulty external waterproofing that leads to condensation and mold near an AC vent. Tenants are responsible for damage caused by their own negligence, such as failing to use the AC properly to control humidity or not reporting a pre-existing leak.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos showing the mold's location near the AC vent. This is required under standard Dubai rental contracts (EJARI) to start the process. Given the UAE's high humidity, condensation within AC ducts is a common underlying cause that often points to an issue with the building's AC insulation or system maintenance, which is the landlord's duty to address.

For a definitive answer on liability, a professional inspection is needed to identify the moisture source. If the inspection finds the mold resulted from a construction flaw or inadequate AC maintenance by the landlord, they should cover the inspection, remediation, and repairs. If the report finds tenant-related causes (like consistently turning the AC off, leading to condensation), you would likely be responsible.

Until resolved, keep the area well-ventilated and avoid disturbing the mold, as some types can cause respiratory irritation. Document all communication with your landlord. If they are unresponsive, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai, and a professional inspection report would serve as key evidence.