Is black mold in my Dubai apartment closet the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet in our Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment has a patch of black mold growing on the back wall, and it's been getting bigger since the humidity spiked last month. All our winter clothes and some shoes are stored in there, and I'm worried about them getting ruined. Who is responsible for dealing with this and paying for the remediation – is it me as the tenant, or is it the landlord's duty to fix?
Posted by Ken Jung
Asked on March 20, 2026 12:33 am
Based on the UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) and standard tenancy contract stipulations, the responsibility for structural repairs and issues arising from the building's fabric typically falls on the landlord. The presence of black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) on an interior wall is frequently a symptom of a persistent moisture issue, which you have correctly linked to the recent high humidity.

The key determination is the source of the moisture. If the mold growth is due to a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a faulty external waterproofing membrane, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation on cold bridges, the landlord is unequivocally responsible for the investigation and remediation. However, if the moisture is solely attributed to tenant activities (e.g., lack of ventilation, drying clothes indoors) without an underlying structural cause, the responsibility may shift.

Given that the mold is actively growing and the problem is escalating, a professional inspection is critical. Our humid climate and year-round AC use can create significant condensation issues that are often misdiagnosed. A certified mold inspector, like our team at Saniservice, will conduct a thorough assessment to identify the precise moisture source using tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters. This expert report is essential evidence to formally present to your landlord or property management company, clearly outlining the cause and the required remedial actions.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize toxic mycotoxins. Isolate the area and avoid using the closet until it is assessed. For a definitive diagnosis and to understand your rights with a professional report, I recommend you contact our specialists immediately.

Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection and get a clear path to resolution.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 21, 2026 1:04 am