Is landlord responsible for AC mold in apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is generally responsible for structural and maintenance issues that lead to mold, which includes a leaking AC drip pan. This is typically classified as a maintenance defect under Dubai rental law. You should formally notify your landlord or building management in writing about the leak and resulting mold to establish a record of the issue.

Given Dubai’s high humidity and year-round AC operation, a leaky drip pan creates a persistent moisture source that mold thrives on. The black patch indicates an active problem that needs two fixes: repairing the leak at its source (the AC unit) and properly remediating the mold growth on the wall.

For a confirmed leak, request that building maintenance inspect and repair the AC drain line and pan. For the mold, a professional assessment is wise, as improper cleaning can aerosolize spores. Remediation involves containing the area, removing the contaminated material, and treating the surface to prevent regrowth. Simply wiping it is often insufficient.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre, as a landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property. For your health and to verify the extent of the issue, an independent indoor environmental assessment can document the cause and required remediation steps.