Should I worry about mold in my closet?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, which gets worse every time it's humid. My landlord hasn’t shown any interest in addressing potential mold issues despite repeated requests. Should I be concerned about my health, or is this something that falls under his maintenance responsibilities?
Posted by Piotr Wojcik
Asked on January 21, 2026 4:15 pm
Absolutely, it's crucial to address the potential mold issue promptly. Mold growth can be significantly problematic under conditions like those you've described, especially after heavy rains and humid environments. In the uae/dubai region, environmental regulations mandate that landlords maintain habitable living spaces free from harmful contaminants such as mold.

The musty smell in your closet could indicate active mold growth, which thrives on dampness and organic materials found in textiles like clothes and linens. This is not something you can safely ignore, as it poses several health risks including respiratory issues, allergies, and even asthma exacerbations. The UAE's building code also requires regular inspections for moisture management and remediation to ensure public safety.

Firstly, consider the immediate steps: If conditions are favorable for mold growth (high humidity or dampness), you should take action right away. Dry out your closet thoroughly by using a dehumidifier or fans if possible. Ensure good air circulation and check for any sources of moisture such as leaking pipes or condensation.

For accurate assessment, I would highly recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection service like ours at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or sending an email to hello@saniservice.com. Our team can conduct a thorough mold test and provide remediation solutions if necessary. Depending on the extent of the problem, we may need to apply hygienization techniques such as biocides, encapsulation, or even complete removal of contaminated materials.

Additionally, it's important to understand your rights as a tenant under UAE law. The Civil Transactions Law 20 of 1985 outlines that landlords must maintain the premises in a safe and habitable condition. However, tenants are also responsible for keeping their living spaces clean and dry. You might want to reference Article 364 which states that "The landlord is obliged to maintain the property in good repair and order."

In conclusion, while it's your responsibility to keep your space clean and dry, landlords must ensure a safe environment. If your landlord isn't addressing the situation, you may need to escalate the issue through proper channels or seek legal advice if necessary.

Remember, prevention and early detection are key to managing mold effectively. Stay vigilant and proactive in dealing with any signs of moisture or mold growth.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 23, 2026 3:59 am