Who is responsible for closet mold and damaged clothes?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code and common tenancy contract stipulations, the responsibility for structural mold issues like the one you've described in your Deira apartment typically falls on the landlord. The persistent dampness on the back wall of a closet is indicative of a building envelope issue, such as penetrating damp from a leaking pipe within the wall, inadequate insulation leading to condensation (a common issue in Dubai's high humidity climate), or a flaw in the external waterproofing. These are all considered structural maintenance items for which the property owner is responsible.

Your responsibility as a tenant generally involves maintaining proper ventilation by running the AC consistently to manage indoor humidity levels and promptly reporting any issues. The damage to your clothes, however, may fall into a grey area. While the landlord is responsible for fixing the source of the moisture, compensation for damaged personal belongings can depend on the specific terms of your tenancy contract and whether the landlord was negligent in addressing a previously reported issue.

For a definitive resolution, a professional inspection is critical. We must identify the exact moisture source (e.g., condensation vs. a leak) to assign liability correctly. The inspection report will provide the necessary evidence to present to your landlord. Attempting to clean the mold or clothes without remediating the source will lead to rapid regrowth.

I strongly recommend you contact your landlord immediately, inform them of the issue, and request a professional mold assessment. For a certified inspection and detailed report that is recognized by Dubai municipalities, you can call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can document the cause and extent of the damage to assist in your discussions with the property owner.