Do I need to address mold in tenants' closet?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, which is right next to the bathroom. My tenants have only lived here for about two months, but they mentioned there was mold growing behind the tiles in their bathroom when they first moved in. The AC seems to be running more frequently lately too. Is it my responsibility to address this, or should I inform the landlord?
Posted by Kevin Anderson
Asked on January 31, 2026 4:52 am
In the UAE context, particularly within Dubai, it is important to address the mold issue promptly as per local building codes and health standards. Mold growth can be detrimental both to the structural integrity of your property and the health of your tenants. Given that you've observed a musty smell in the closet adjacent to a bathroom where mold was previously reported by your tenants, it's advisable to take immediate action.

Firstly, the fact that there is ongoing mold growth despite previous reports suggests a persistent moisture issue which needs thorough investigation. This could be indicative of inadequate ventilation or issues with the AC system as you mentioned it runs more frequently. According to UAE standards (such as EN 13209-1:2015), proper humidity control and ventilation are crucial in preventing mold proliferation.

It is your responsibility, especially given that this closet area may be within a tenant's living space, to address this issue. You should arrange for a professional environmental inspection by calling 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or emailing hello@saniservice.com. These experts can provide detailed assessments and recommend appropriate remediation steps.

Before engaging the professionals, you might want to conduct an initial visual inspection yourself focusing on areas like walls behind tiles, corners, and any signs of water damage. However, be cautious not to disturb mold as this could disperse spores leading to further contamination.

Once a professional assessment is conducted, they will likely recommend corrective measures such as moisture source identification, cleaning procedures, and in some cases, the use of anti-mold treatments or sealants. Ensure that all remediation activities are carried out by certified professionals to meet the stringent standards set forth by local authorities like the Dubai Municipality.

Remember, preventing mold growth involves maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels (typically below 60%), ensuring good ventilation, and promptly addressing any water leaks or excess moisture. Regular maintenance checks on your AC system and plumbing fixtures can also help prevent such issues in the future.

In conclusion, taking proactive steps to address this situation is not only a responsible action towards maintaining a healthy living environment for your tenants but also complies with local building regulations and standards. Prompt action will ensure that any potential health risks are minimized and your property remains in good condition.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 2, 2026 5:59 pm