Who pays for mold removal from landlord's AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

Tenancy laws in Dubai generally place the responsibility for maintenance and structural repairs on the landlord. Since the mold growth originated from an AC unit leak that you previously reported, the remediation cost should not be your responsibility. The landlord's duty to provide a habitable premises includes addressing issues like persistent leaks that lead to property damage and health hazards.

Document everything: keep records of your previous communications with the landlord about the AC leak, including dates and any responses. Take clear, dated photos of the leak and the resulting mold growth. This evidence is crucial for establishing that the issue was reported and not addressed in a timely manner.

For a case of this size, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the full extent of the mold, including any potential growth inside the wall cavity. In Dubai's humid climate, hidden moisture can cause a problem to escalate quickly. A detailed report from a certified inspector can provide the necessary documentation for the landlord, outlining the cause and the required remediation scope.

If the landlord remains unresponsive, you can escalate the matter by filing a formal complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will review your evidence, including the professional inspection report, to determine liability.