Who is responsible for mold in my closet?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet. When I checked, there seemed to be some discoloration on the walls and a few patches of mold growing behind the baseboard. Is it my responsibility as a tenant to address this issue or should the landlord take care of it?
Posted by Andrzej Van den Berg
Asked on January 12, 2026 10:54 am
In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, mold issues can arise due to various factors including climate conditions and recent weather events like heavy rains. As a tenant experiencing a musty smell and visible signs of mold growth in your bedroom closet, you are indeed within your rights to bring this issue to the attention of your landlord.

Under the Real Estate Agency Regulations 2018 (REAR) which govern residential leases in Dubai, landlords have the responsibility to ensure that the premises they provide meet certain standards. Section 37 specifically addresses maintenance and repair responsibilities, stating that a landlord must maintain the property in good condition. This includes keeping common areas clean and dry as well as ensuring the structural integrity of the building.

However, it is also important for tenants to take some proactive measures. Upon noticing mold growth, you should document the extent of the damage through photos or videos. Keeping a record of when you first noticed the issue can be crucial in case you need to discuss this with your landlord or even a professional inspector later on.

Given that you're experiencing mold in your closet and the possibility that it could spread further, recommending a professional inspection is prudent. Saniservice.com offers expert services for mold testing, which not only identifies the type of mold but also assesses its potential health impacts. Their hotline 800-MOLDS (800-66537) can be contacted to schedule an appointment.

When contacting your landlord, you should provide them with a detailed report and evidence of the mold growth. If necessary, bring in a certified professional from Saniservice.com who will issue a formal assessment. This could help in getting landlords to take the matter more seriously as they understand the potential health risks associated with mold.

Remember, if your landlord does not respond satisfactorily or takes too long to address the issue, you have options such as seeking legal advice or approaching relevant authorities for assistance. In many cases, prompt action by tenants can encourage landlords to take remediation steps sooner rather than later.

In conclusion, while it's ultimately the responsibility of the landlord to maintain the property in good condition, proactive communication and possibly involving professional expertise might be necessary to ensure timely and effective resolution of your mold issue.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 15, 2026 10:36 am