Who fixes AC leaks and mold as a renter?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be dripping water constantly, and when I looked closer, I found what looked like mold growing behind the unit. This has only happened since last month’s heavy rain, and it’s really starting to worry me about the overall health of our home. Given that we’re renters, whose responsibility is it to address this issue?
Posted by Neha Joshi
Asked on December 29, 2025 11:20 pm
0
In the UAE, specifically Dubai, when it comes to addressing issues like AC leaks and mold growth, there can be some confusion over who is responsible. Typically speaking, as a renter, if you notice an issue such as water dripping from your air conditioning unit leading to mold growth, this falls under the landlord's maintenance responsibility.

The UAE has specific building codes and regulations that mandate landlords ensure their properties are in a habitable condition. Article 32 of the Civil Code of the UAE states that "the owner or landlord shall repair any damage caused by him or due to his act or omission." This means that if an AC unit is leaking water, causing mold growth behind it, and this was not present before your tenancy, then the landlord should be responsible for addressing the issue.

However, there's a catch. If you've recently experienced heavy rain in Dubai, which has been more frequent due to climate change, the damage could potentially fall under "Acts of God" or natural events that might not be covered by routine maintenance responsibilities. In such cases, it is important to gather evidence and inform your landlord about the circumstances.

It's crucial for you as a renter to take proactive steps. First, document everything: take photos of the mold and water damage, noting the date. Next, contact your landlord or property manager and report the issue. If necessary, escalate the matter to the Real Estate Agency if the landlord is unresponsive.

Given the importance of indoor air quality, especially with issues like mold growth, I highly recommend getting a professional inspection done by a certified environmental inspector. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice can offer this service. They can assess the extent of the damage and provide recommendations on remediation. You can reach out to them at 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com.

Remember, while landlords are generally responsible for maintaining their properties in a safe and healthy condition, it's always good practice to keep your space clean and report any issues promptly. If you're unsure about the next steps, consulting with a legal advisor familiar with UAE real estate laws can provide further clarity.

Always stay proactive and document everything. Let’s ensure that both you and your family are in a safe and healthy living environment!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 1, 2026 2:22 am