Who is responsible for fixing a broken rental AC?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining and repairing central AC systems that are built into the property's structure, like a chiller or central air unit. This is considered a fixture, not a removable appliance. Your tenancy contract is the final authority, but standard Ejari agreements typically place this responsibility on the property owner.

Given the symptoms—a loud rattling noise and loss of cooling—this is likely a significant mechanical or refrigerant issue, not just a clogged filter. In Dubai's climate, where AC runs year-round and systems work hard against humidity and dust, wear-and-tear accelerates. A two-week-old problem indicates a failure beyond basic tenant maintenance.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, referencing the specific issue and its duration. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai (RDC). For immediate relief, a professional inspection can diagnose the exact problem, which provides concrete evidence for your landlord. Be aware that attempting repairs yourself on a built-in system could void any existing service contracts or leave you liable for further damage.