Is mold in my Dubai apartment a landlord responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the symptoms you've described—a persistent musty odor and visible fuzzy black and green growth on clothing—this is a clear indication of an active mold infestation. The high humidity levels common in Dubai, particularly during summer months, create a perfect environment for mold growth, especially in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces like closets on exterior walls where condensation can form.

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation hinges on the source of the moisture. According to standard tenancy contract regulations (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is obligated to maintain the property's structural integrity. If the mold is a result of a structural issue, such as a leaking pipe within the walls, a faulty AC unit causing condensation, or water ingress from the building envelope, the landlord is legally required to address the root cause and the resulting damage. However, if the moisture is solely due to tenant lifestyle factors (e.g., inadequate ventilation, drying clothes indoors), the responsibility may fall on you.

Given that the growth is on personal items and you suspect it has spread behind the walls, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional attention. A musty smell is a primary indicator of hidden microbial growth. DIY cleaning is insufficient and can aggravate the problem by dispersing spores.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to identify the exact species and the moisture source. Our certified experts use thermal imaging and borescopes to assess contamination within wall cavities. Based on the findings, we can determine liability and provide a detailed remediation protocol for the landlord or yourself.

For immediate assistance, we advise you to contact our team to schedule an inspection. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.