Is a damp closet a tenant or landlord responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

This is a classic issue we see in Dubai, especially in secondary spaces like closets and en-suites that lack direct AC airflow. From a building science perspective, the dampness and mold growth you're describing are symptoms of elevated relative humidity, likely exceeding 65%, which creates the perfect environment for mold spores to colonize organic materials like leather.

Under the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing issues with the building envelope and core MEP systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) that lead to indoor environmental quality problems. Since the lack of adequate ventilation in that closet is a design flaw impacting the property's condition, it falls under the landlord's purview. The resulting mold poses a health risk and is damaging to both your personal belongings and the landlord's property (e.g., walls, built-in shelving).

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for reporting this issue promptly and allowing reasonable access for inspection and remediation. Do not just buy a dehumidifier; that treats the symptom, not the cause, and adds an operational cost that shouldnt be yours.

My strong recommendation is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos of the mold. Request a professional inspection to identify the exact humidity source and propose a solution, which may include installing a supplemental exhaust fan or redirecting an AC vent. For a proper assessment, you can call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537). We can provide a detailed report outlining the cause and the necessary corrective actions, which you can then present to the landlord to expedite a resolution. Ignoring this will only lead to more significant damage down the line.