Who is responsible for mold behind my apartment's wardrobe?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility typically falls on your landlord for structural repairs, while tenants cover general maintenance. In Dubai, the rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007) generally holds landlords responsible for fixing issues related to the building's structure, such as leaks in external walls or faulty plumbing that cause dampness. However, if the dampness is due to tenant behavior—like inadequate ventilation from constant AC use without periodic fresh air exchange—the cost may be shared.

Your situation in JVC is common due to the high humidity and condensation from year-round AC use. The cold wall behind the wardrobe creates a thermal bridge where moisture condenses, providing a perfect environment for mold. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos. They should send a technician to identify the moisture source—it could be an external leak or an internal AC drain line issue.

For a patch you describe as "huge," a professional inspection is wise to assess the extent and identify the mold species, as some can be more problematic than others. Do not attempt to clean it with bleach, as this can exacerbate the problem. The underlying moisture issue must be fixed first; otherwise, the mold will return. Repairs involve drying the area, rectifying the water source, and then properly remediating the mold.

Your tenancy contract may have specific clauses, so review it. Ultimately, the party responsible for the cause of the moisture is responsible for the fix. Document all communication for reference with Dubai's Rental Dispute Center if needed.