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

Tenant-landlord responsibility for mold removal in Dubai typically depends on the cause. The landlord is responsible for fixing structural issues or building defects that cause moisture intrusion, such as leaking pipes, faulty external waterproofing, or a defective AC condensation drain line. The tenant is responsible for mold resulting from their own actions, like failing to run the AC regularly, blocking vents, or not reporting a leak in a timely manner.

In your JVT apartment, the location right at the AC vent is a critical clue. This often points to an issue with the air conditioning system itself, specifically a clogged condensate drain pan or pipe causing water to back up and seep into the ceiling. This is generally considered a maintenance issue for the property owner to address. The high humidity we experience for much of the year accelerates this problem, as AC units work harder and produce more condensation.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos of the mold. They are typically obligated to arrange for a professional inspection to diagnose the source. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can disperse spores. The remediation cost hinges on that diagnosis; if the root cause is a building system fault, the landlord bears the cost. For a definitive answer on responsibility, refer to the specific terms of your tenancy contract regarding maintenance and repairs.