Who pays for mold repair in a rented apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Excellent and very common question, especially with the humid climate we manage here in Dubai. This situation, with the AC unit suspected as the source, is a classic case we see daily.

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation costs in a rented property is primarily dictated by the cause of the moisture. According to standard rental law provisions (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and the functionality of its core systems, including the AC and its drainage. Since your issue is likely due to a faulty AC drain line—a maintenance issue of the installed appliance—the financial responsibility for both repairing the leak and the subsequent professional mold remediation almost certainly falls on the landlord.

However, you have a crucial step to take first: formal notification. You must inform your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Provide clear photos of the mold and describe the damp smell. This establishes a paper trail and triggers their obligation to act. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate the problem, potentially making you liable for further damage.

Given your lease is up for renewal soon, addressing this is urgent. A professional inspection is non-negotiable here. We need to confirm the AC leak, assess the extent of the mold growth within the wall cavity (which is likely worse than what's visible), and provide a certified report for your landlord. This report will detail the cause and the required scope of work, which strengthens your case.

For a definitive assessment and a formal report to present to your landlord, please call our certified inspectors at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can document everything professionally to ensure this is resolved correctly before you renew your contract.