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

In the UAE, particularly in humid coastal areas like Dubai Marina, landlord responsibility for mold remediation is typically governed by the tenancy contract and Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended). Generally, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as leaking pipes within the walls, faulty external waterproofing, or inadequate insulation leading to condensation within the AC system itself.

However, tenant responsibilities often include maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of humidity, which is a primary catalyst for mold growth in our climate. Running the AC constantly is not sufficient if the unit is not properly sized, poorly maintained, or if the closet remains a sealed, unventilated dead space. The black spots on the wall and personal items like shoes strongly indicate a persistent moisture issue.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photographs, to initiate a dialogue. They should arrange for a professional inspection to determine the moisture source. This is critical, as simply wiping away the visible mold without addressing the root cause will lead to rapid regrowth. If the origin is a building defect, they are obligated to rectify it and the resulting damage. If the cause is determined to be tenant-related (e.g., lack of ventilation, drying wet clothes indoors), you may be liable for the cleanup costs.

For a definitive assessment and a remediation plan that complies with Dubai Municipality guidelines, I recommend a certified inspection. Our team at Saniservice can identify the exact moisture source, conduct professional air and surface testing, and provide a detailed report for your landlord. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.