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

In Dubai's rental market, responsibility typically falls on the property owner for structural issues, while tenants handle day-to-day maintenance. An AC leak originating from the unit itself or its internal drain line is generally considered a maintenance issue for the landlord to rectify, as it's part of the property's fixed systems.

You should formally notify your landlord or property management company immediately in writing, including clear photos of the leak and the resulting mold growth. The persistent humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create ideal conditions for mold to spread quickly from a small leak. For a small, surface-level patch, the landlord will often arrange for both the AC repair and a basic cleaning.

However, if the mold has spread significantly behind the wall or into the closet structure, the situation becomes more complex. The landlord is responsible for repairing the leak and the damaged structure, but the cost of the mold remediation itself can be a point of negotiation. If the leak was pre-existing or due to a building fault, they should cover it. If it was caused by a tenant-not-reported clog or lack of maintenance, the tenant may be liable.

For any visible spreading, a professional inspection is wise to determine the full extent. The remediation process should involve fixing the moisture source, proper containment during removal, and verification that the space is truly dry and clean—not just a superficial wipe-down, which is ineffective in our climate.