Black mold behind wardrobe: tenant or landlord responsible?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the specific conditions in your Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment, this is a classic case of mold growth driven by Dubai's high ambient humidity and condensation from constant AC operation. The black spots behind the wardrobe indicate a localized humidity trap; the wall is likely a cold bridge where warm, moist air condenses, creating a perfect microenvironment for mold, even with the AC on.

Under UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for remediation is typically determined by the cause of the issue. The landlord is responsible for rectifying defects in the property's original construction, such as inherent rising damp, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate external wall insulation that allows condensation. As the tenant, you are generally responsible for damage resulting from your own negligence or lifestyle, such as inadequate ventilation, failing to use exhaust fans, or blocking AC vents with furniture.

However, the placement on an interior wall behind a large piece of furniture strongly suggests this is a condensation issue exacerbated by a lack of air circulation. This creates a grey area. The landlord must address the root structural cause if one exists, while you may be responsible for the cleaning if it's purely due to the wardrobe placement.

Given the musty odor and visible growth, a professional inspection is critical to determine the exact cause, moisture source, and extent of the problem. DIY attempts can disturb spores and exacerbate health risks. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the source and provide a definitive report on liability, which is essential for discussions with your landlord or building management.

For a definitive assessment and to resolve this issue safely, I recommend you contact our team. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.