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

Our bedroom closet on the outside wall has developed a pretty bad black mold problem, especially after all that humidity last month. We’ve been in this Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment for three years and this is the first time we’ve seen it. I’ve wiped it down with vinegar, but it keeps coming back. Is this something I need to handle myself, or is my landlord responsible for fixing what seems like a potential moisture issue in the wall?
Posted by Lisa Miller
Asked on April 13, 2026 3:40 pm
Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, a landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing underlying issues that lead to mold, such as water leaks, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation. The recurring nature of the mold in your Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment, especially on an exterior wall, strongly indicates a persistent moisture intrusion or condensation issue that is a structural maintenance matter. Your attempt to clean the surface with vinegar is a common but insufficient remedy, as it does not address the hidden moisture source or the mycotoxins present.

Given Dubai's high humidity levels and the prevalence of year-round air conditioning, temperature differentials can cause significant condensation within wall cavities, a common failure point in many buildings. A professional inspection is absolutely critical here. We would use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to non-invasively pinpoint the exact source of the moisture—whether it's a leak from the outside, internal condensation, or a faulty AC drain line.

We strongly advise you to document the issue and formally notify your landlord or property management company, referencing their obligation to rectify the root cause. For a definitive assessment and a detailed report that can be provided to your landlord, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. Attempting remediation without fixing the underlying cause will only result in the mold returning, potentially exacerbating the problem and impacting your indoor air quality.
Posted by Waleed Al-Sayed
Answered on April 14, 2026 3:48 pm