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

This is an excellent and very common question for the UAE climate. The responsibility typically hinges on the root cause, which requires a professional inspection to determine conclusively.

Under UAE tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for maintaining it in a habitable condition. This includes addressing issues like water infiltration from faulty external waterproofing, leaking internal pipes within the walls, or a defective AC system that is not dehumidifying properly. The persistent dampness you describe, especially on an interior wall, strongly suggests a potential underlying issue beyond just ambient humidity.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintenance arising from their own use, such as ensuring adequate ventilation. While you run the AC, a closet against an outside wall is a common cold spot where condensation can form if air circulation is blocked by packed-in clothes.

My professional recommendation is to first report this in writing to your landlord or property management company immediately. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper disturbance can spread spores. They should arrange for a certified mold inspection. We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source—whether it’s a hidden leak, insulation failure, or simply a ventilation issue.

Given the location in JVT and the timing correlating with high humidity, a compromised building envelope is a strong possibility, which is unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to remedy. For a definitive assessment and remediation quote, please call our specialists at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.