Who is responsible for mold in my apartmnet closet?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the description of black speckles on an interior wall and the accompanying damp smell, this is a classic presentation of a mold colony, likely exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and continuous AC operation. The interior wall location is a critical clue, as it often points to a hidden source of moisture, such as a leaking pipe within the wall cavity or condensation from an AC line.

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is dictated by the reason for its growth. According to standard tenancy contract provisions and Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for resolving issues related to the structural integrity of the property. This includes fixing the underlying cause, such as repairing leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation that leads to condensation. The tenant is typically responsible for damage resulting from negligence, such as failing to use the AC to control humidity or causing a spill and not drying it properly.

Given that this is an interior wall and you've had no issues for three years, the cause is almost certainly a hidden structural or mechanical fault, placing the responsibility on your landlord. Your first step is to formally notify them in writing (email is best) with clear photographs. Politely insist that they address the source of the moisture, not just clean the visible mold.

However, we strongly recommend a professional inspection before any remediation is attempted. A certified inspector, like our team at Saniservice, will use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint the exact moisture source hidden within the wall. This evidence is invaluable for ensuring your landlord completes the correct repairs. Simply wiping the mold away is a temporary fix; without eliminating the moisture source, it will return.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled safely and effectively, please contact our specialists. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.