Is landlord responsible for mold in closet?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, this is a very common issue here in Dubai, especially in areas like Al Barsha where high humidity and condensation from AC units can lead to persistent dampness. From a professional standpoint, the recurring growth you're seeing after wiping indicates a moisture source hasn't been addressed – likely a leak in the wall, rising damp, or severe condensation.

Regarding responsibility under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing issues with the building envelope – like leaks in external walls or problems with the AC system that cause condensation – which are the root cause of the mold. Since the mold returned after your cleaning efforts, it strongly suggests an underlying structural or maintenance-related moisture issue, which falls under the landlord's obligation to rectify.

However, tenants are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring adequate ventilation. You've already taken a reasonable step by attempting to clean it.

Given that your children are experiencing respiratory symptoms, this is a serious health concern that warrants immediate professional attention. DIY cleaning is insufficient and can often aerosolize spores, making the air quality worse.

I strongly recommend you formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and request a professional mold inspection. We can perform a comprehensive assessment to identify the exact moisture source and type of mold, which is crucial for an effective remediation plan. The landlord should cover the cost of the fix if it's determined to be a structural problem.

For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Your family's health is paramount.