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

Based on your description of black speckling spreading on an interior wall closet in a Mirdif villa, this is highly indicative of mold growth, likely exacerbated by the recent extreme humidity. The interior wall location suggests a potential combination of factors: high ambient humidity, possible condensation from an AC supply duct within the closet, and lack of air circulation.

In Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation is generally determined by the cause. According to standard tenancy contract provisions and Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking pipes within the walls, or inadequate ventilation systems that lead to chronic condensation. However, if the moisture issue is solely due to tenant lifestyle (e.g., inadequate use of AC to control humidity, drying clothes indoors), the responsibility may fall on you.

Given the concealed location on an interior wall, a professional inspection is critical to determine the exact cause. DIY cleaning is strongly discouraged for suspected black mold, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and exacerbate contamination. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and moisture mapping with thermal imaging to locate the moisture source.

I recommend you immediately notify your landlord in writing about the issue, as it is a potential health and property damage concern. Request a professional mold assessment. For this, you can contact our specialists at Saniservice. We can provide a comprehensive inspection and detailed report that outlines the cause, which is essential for determining liability. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.