Who is responsible for treating wardrobe mold, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page
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The wardrobe in our master bedroom in Jumeirah has started to get these black spots on the back wall, and it’s definitely getting worse. It started a couple of months ago and I keep wiping it away, but it just comes back stronger and the whole room smells damp. Who is responsible for getting this properly treated, me as the tenant or the landlord?
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Based on UAE tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for treating mold in a wardrobe is typically determined by the cause of the moisture. The landlord is legally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing issues like leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate external sealing that allow moisture ingress, which are the primary causes of persistent mold growth.
However, as a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property in a habitable condition. In Dubai's high-humidity climate, this requires proactive measures to manage indoor moisture generated from daily activities. The recurring nature of the mold, its location on an interior wall, and the damp smell strongly suggest an underlying moisture source. The fact that it returns after wiping indicates you are dealing with a colony that has penetrated the porous surface, which surface cleaning cannot eradicate. Given your description, this is a serious case requiring professional intervention. The first step is a certified mold inspection to identify the exact moisture source—whether it's a hidden plumbing leak, condensation from AC units, or inadequate ventilation. This objective report is crucial for determining financial responsibility between tenant and landlord. Do not attempt to remediate this yourself with bleach or consumer products, as this can exacerbate the problem and spread spores. I strongly recommend you contact a professional environmental service like Saniservice to conduct a comprehensive inspection and moisture assessment. They can provide the necessary documentation for your landlord and execute the correct remediation protocol if needed. For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
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