Who is responsible for closet mold, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page
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Our master bedroom closet in our Deira apartment has started to get black spots on the wall, and it smells really damp. It's been getting worse over the last month, and we've been running the dehumidifier non-stop. Who is responsible for fixing this and the cost, us as tenants or the landlord?
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Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract stipulations, responsibility for mold remediation hinges on the cause of the moisture. The landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity. Therefore, if the mold in your Deira closet is due to a structural issue like a leaking pipe within the wall, a faulty AC condensation drain line servicing that wall, or water seepage from the building envelope, the financial responsibility for both the repair and the professional mold remediation falls squarely on the landlord.
However, tenant liability arises if the moisture is a result of occupant behavior. In Dubai's extreme humidity, inadequate ventilation is a primary culprit. If the mold is caused by failing to use the provided AC system appropriately, blocking ventilation grilles, or introducing excessive moisture (e.g., storing damp clothes), the cost of cleaning may be your responsibility. The continuous use of a dehumidifier indicates you are aware of the issue, but it is a mitigation tool, not a cure for an established infestation. Given the progression and the distinct damp odor, a professional inspection is critical. Surface cleaning is insufficient if the moisture source is not identified and rectified. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact cause—whether it's condensation due to a temperature differential or an active leak. This objective report is essential for determining liability between tenant and landlord. For an accurate diagnosis and a definitive remediation plan, we strongly recommend you contact our team. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment. |
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