Is landlord responsible for apartment dampness and mold?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the landlord is legally obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural issues that lead to dampness and mold, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or cracks in the building envelope that allow moisture ingress. The recurring nature of the mold, despite your cleaning efforts, strongly indicates an underlying moisture source that the landlord is responsible for rectifying.

The damp wall behind a wardrobe in JVC is a classic symptom of condensation, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and continuous AC use. The cold wall surface from the AC creates a thermal bridge, and when warm, humid air from the room meets this cold surface, it condenses, creating the perfect environment for mold. The wardrobe further traps this moisture, preventing air circulation.

Your use of vinegar is a temporary surface fix that does not address the root cause. For a proper resolution, you must formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue, requesting they investigate and repair the source of the dampness. They should engage a professional mold inspection company, like Saniservice, to conduct a thorough assessment. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact cause—whether it's condensation, a hidden leak, or a construction defect—and provide a detailed remediation protocol.

For a definitive diagnosis and to ensure your landlord fulfills their obligation, we recommend a professional inspection. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.