Is fixing closet humidity my or management's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page
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My master bedroom closet in my Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has started to feel damp and my clothes have a weird, mildewy smell, especially after this last really humid week. I've tried a small dehumidifier tub but it fills up in a day. I'm not sure if this is because the building's AC isn't strong enough or if there's an issue with the apartment's ventilation. Is getting a proper dehumidifier for the room my responsibility as a tenant, or should the building management handle the root cause of the humidity?
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Excellent question. This is a very common issue we encounter, especially in newer developments like JVC, particularly during the peak humidity season we're in now.
The short answer is: addressing the symptom (the humidity in your closet) is typically your responsibility as a tenant, while addressing the root cause is a shared responsibility, often falling to building management. Here’s the technical breakdown. Your apartment's AC is the primary dehumidifier. It removes moisture from the air as it cools. The problem in closets is often poor air circulation. Stagnant, humid air gets trapped, and since the closet is likely on an exterior wall, it might be slightly cooler, causing moisture to condense—a perfect breeding ground for mold and that mildewy smell. Your small dehumidifier tub filling daily is a major red flag; it indicates a significant and continuous moisture load, not just ambient humidity. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining adequate air circulation within your demised premises. This means ensuring closet doors are left ajar and that no furniture is blocking AC supply/return vents, hindering overall airflow. However, the root cause could be a building issue. If the central AC system is undersized, not running long enough in dehumidification mode, or if there are leaks in the building envelope or ductwork, that is the responsibility of the Owner's Association (OA) and building management to investigate and remediate, as per Dubai's Strata Law regulations. My professional recommendation: First, try improving circulation. If the problem persists, you need a professional inspection. We use thermal imaging cameras and precise hygrometers to identify the exact source of the moisture—whether it's a lack of negative pressure, a hidden leak, or inadequate AC performance. This evidence-based report is crucial for formally engaging your building management to fix the root cause. For a proper assessment and to stop the mold growth, dont hesitate to call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
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