Am I or my landlord responsible for AC repair?« Back to Previous Page

Check your tenancy contract's maintenance clause first. In Dubai, landlords are typically responsible for structural and major mechanical repairs to fixed installations like central AC units, while tenants handle minor maintenance like filter changes. The rattling suggests a mechanical issue beyond basic upkeep, likely falling under the landlord's responsibility.

Given Dubai's year-round AC dependency and high dust levels, persistent noises often indicate problems with fan motors, compressors, or loose components that require professional diagnosis. Document the issue in writing to your landlord or property manager, noting the duration and impact. For a formal request, use the Dubai REST app, which creates a timestamped record of your communication.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference RERA's tenancy laws, which generally hold the property owner accountable for maintaining the habitability of the premises, which includes functional climate control. However, if the damage resulted from tenant misuse, repair costs could be yours. Since you've only performed filter changes, a mechanical fault is unlikely to be your responsibility.

For immediate peace of mind, consider a professional inspection to identify the exact cause—this assessment can clarify the repair scope and strengthen your request to the landlord. In JVC, many HVAC technicians offer this service.