Mold behind wardrobe in Dubai: landlord or professional first?« Back to Previous Page

Document the mold growth with clear photos showing its extent and location on the exterior-facing wall. In Dubai, landlords are generally responsible for addressing structural issues like this, especially since it's on an external wall and likely related to condensation or a leak. You should notify your landlord in writing immediately, attaching the photos.

Given the climate in JVC, with high humidity and constant AC use, this is a common issue. The wall behind the wardrobe is a cold spot where condensation forms, creating an ideal environment for mold. The recent humidity spike has accelerated its growth.

While the landlord is responsible for the repair, the remediation process is specialized. A professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source—whether it's a minor condensation issue or a more serious leak—and determine the mold type. This documented assessment is crucial for your landlord to understand the required scope of work and for any reputable contractor to provide an accurate solution.

It is reasonable to request that your landlord hires a certified mold remediation company. The process should include fixing the moisture source, proper containment during removal to prevent spore spread, and verification of clearance through post-remediation testing. Simply painting over it is an inadequate solution that will lead to recurrence.

If your landlord is unresponsive or attempts a superficial fix, you may need to escalate through Dubai's Rental Dispute Center (RDC). Having a professional report from a company with its own microbiology lab can provide the evidence needed for such a dispute, as it verifies the biological hazard objectively.