Who is responsible for mold in a rental wardrobe?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility typically falls on the landlord if the mold is due to a structural defect, such as a hidden leak in the external wall or faulty insulation that allowed moisture ingress during the rains. Tenant responsibility applies if the issue is solely from interior condensation due to lifestyle, like inadequate ventilation.

In Dubai's climate, the wall facing the outside is a common trouble spot. The external heat meets the interior AC cooling, creating a cold surface where airborne moisture condenses inside the wall cavity—a process called interstitial condensation. This trapped dampness, worsened by the recent high humidity, is a perfect environment for mold, and it originates from the building envelope, not your daily AC use.

Document the issue thoroughly with clear photos and a written notice to the landlord, stating the mold is on the interior wall surface, not just the furniture. Politely request they investigate the external wall's integrity for leaks or insufficient waterproofing, as this is their legal obligation under typical rental laws to maintain the property's structure.

For a case this advanced, a professional inspection is crucial to determine the moisture source definitively. An inspection report from a certified company can identify if the wall’s dew point is causing the condensation, providing objective evidence for your landlord. If the landlord remains uncooperative, you may need to escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC), as they adjudicate such responsibilities based on the cause. Do not attempt to clean severe mold yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize spores and worsen indoor air quality.