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

Based on your description of black spots on leather goods, a persistent damp smell, and regrowth despite cleaning, you are almost certainly dealing with a mold infestation. The location on an outside wall is a critical detail, as this is a classic sign of a structural moisture issue, such as water seepage through the building envelope or condensation due to thermal bridging, both of which are common in Dubai's climate.

In the UAE, the responsibility for rectifying this issue is typically determined by the source of the moisture. According to standard rental contract law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity. This includes addressing defects in the building's construction that allow water ingress, such as cracks in the external wall, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation that leads to condensation within the wall cavity. These are not considered tenant-caused issues.

However, if the dampness were solely due to tenant behavior—like severely inadequate ventilation or blocking AC vents—the responsibility might shift. Your case, with the problem localized to an exterior wall, strongly suggests a structural flaw.

You must immediately inform your landlord or property management company in writing. They are obligated to investigate and fix the root cause. Do not just treat the visible mold, as it will continue to return until the moisture source is eliminated.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified experts at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the exact moisture source and type of mold, providing a definitive report you can present to your landlord. This technical evidence is invaluable for ensuring the correct, permanent solution is implemented. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.