Who is responsible for mold in closet?« Back to Previous Page
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After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from my bedroom closet. My roommates and I are pretty sure it's mold, but we're unsure about who is responsible for addressing this issue—me, my landlord, or both of us together. We've lived here for two years now, and while the smell has been getting progressively worse, neither my friends nor I have raised this concern before because we didn't want to cause trouble. Could someone please advise on our next steps?
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The responsibility for mold in your bedroom closet can be complex and often involves both the tenant and landlord. In the UAE context, particularly in Dubai, it is crucial to understand local laws and regulations regarding property maintenance and health issues.
Firstly, as a professional in environmental inspection and remediation, it's important to note that the UAE doesn't have specific legislation dedicated solely to mold; however, general building codes and tenant-landlord relations are governed by the Civil Transactions Law (Federal Law No. 24 of 1985) and other local regulations. Given your situation, if the closet is part of the common area of the apartment or was in a state of disrepair prior to your tenancy, then it would be the landlord's responsibility to address the issue. However, if mold has grown due to negligence by tenants (like not maintaining personal belongings that led to moisture accumulation), this could place some responsibility on you as well. To properly address the situation and ensure compliance with best practices: 1. Document the Condition: Take photos of the affected area for records. 2. Consult a Professional: Given the potential health risks, it is advisable to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to conduct an inspection. They can provide expert advice and ensure that the mold remediation process adheres to all necessary standards. 3. Communicate with Your Landlord: Clearly inform your landlord about the situation in writing. Provide them with the photos and any reports from the professional inspection, and discuss a timeline for addressing the issue. 4. Follow Local Regulations: Ensure that any remediation work complies with local building codes and health regulations. In Dubai, it is common to have clauses in lease agreements regarding both parties' responsibilities. If your agreement does not specify mold-related issues, you might need to refer to general tenant rights and obligations as outlined by the relevant real estate authorities. Remember, maintaining good communication with your landlord is key. Open dialogue can often resolve such issues more amicably than confrontation. However, if no resolution can be reached, consider seeking legal advice or mediation services available in the UAE to protect your interests while ensuring the health of you and your roommates remains a priority. Always keep in mind that addressing mold promptly not only ensures safety but also helps maintain the property's value and your living environment. |
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