Is ceiling water stain from AC a landlord issue?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed water stains forming on the ceiling of my bedroom, which is directly above the living room where the AC unit is located. This has been going on for a few days now, and it's getting worse. Should I be concerned about this or is it something that falls under the landlord’s responsibility to clean and maintain?
Posted by Ashok Mukherjee
Asked on December 8, 2025 7:01 pm
0
Yes, ceiling water stains from the AC unit can indeed be considered a landlord responsibility. In Dubai/UAE, landlords are typically required to ensure that the property is in good condition and free of defects upon move-in and during the tenancy period. This includes maintaining the structural integrity and ensuring proper functioning of all systems like the air conditioning units.

However, this doesn't mean you should just sit back and wait for the landlord to fix it right away. Given that you've noticed a worsening issue over several days, I recommend taking prompt action by informing your landlord about the situation as soon as possible. If they do not address the problem or refuse to do so, you may need to escalate the matter through the relevant rental dispute resolution mechanisms.

It's also wise to document everything - take photos of the water stains and note the date, time, and description of the issue in your tenant diary or logbook. This can serve as evidence should any disputes arise.

If the situation is serious and seems to be causing structural damage or if you are uncomfortable waiting for a response from your landlord, consider engaging a professional building inspection service. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) can provide detailed assessments of the condition of your property.

Remember that while AC units are generally maintained by the landlord, there may be some maintenance responsibilities on the tenant's part as well. For instance, checking for leaks in the unit itself and ensuring proper drainage around the system could help prevent such issues from arising in the first place.

In sum, it’s important to address this issue promptly to avoid potential further damage to your property or health. Stay proactive and informed about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 11, 2025 6:17 pm