Is landlord responsible for moldy clothes in storage?« Back to Previous Page

This depends on the source of the moisture. In Dubai's climate, enclosed spaces without ventilation are prone to condensation due to high outdoor humidity meeting year-round AC cooling. If the mold is caused by a structural leak or a building defect (like a leaking pipe in the wall), the landlord is typically responsible for the repair under Dubai rental law, as they must provide a habitable property.

For damage to your belongings, your chances of a successful claim are stronger if you can prove the landlord was aware of the moisture issue and failed to act. Document everything with photos and report the problem to them in writing immediately. Storing items in a known damp, unventilated space can sometimes be seen as contributory negligence.

Your first step is to identify the moisture source. A professional inspection can determine if it's condensation or an active leak. For a space like that, installing a small ventilation grate or a moisture-absorbing product can help manage the environment after the root cause is fixed. For the mold on clothes, professional fabric restoration can often salvage them if the growth is recent.