Is black mold in my closet the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the symptoms you've described—black speckles on an exterior wall following a period of high humidity—this is a classic case of condensation-induced mold growth, a very common issue in Dubai due to the climate. The constant high humidity outside, coupled with year-round air conditioning cooling interior surfaces, creates the perfect environment for condensation to form on cooler walls, especially those facing the exterior. This moisture allows mold spores, which are always present in the air, to colonize.

Regarding responsibility, the UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) generally places the obligation on the landlord to maintain the property in a habitable condition, which includes addressing structural or maintenance-related issues that lead to dampness and mold. Since this is on an exterior wall, the root cause could be an insufficient thermal break or insulation within the wall itself, which is a structural element. As a tenant, your responsibility is typically to maintain cleanliness and ensure adequate ventilation to minimize humidity buildup. However, the persistent reappearance on an external wall strongly suggests a underlying structural moisture issue.

You should immediately notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photographs. A professional inspection is crucial to determine the exact cause and extent. DIY assessments are not recommended, as hidden growth within the wall cavity is likely. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify the condensation points and the full scope of contamination, providing a definitive report that can be used to formally request remediation from your landlord.

For a thorough assessment and to protect your health, I strongly recommend scheduling a professional mold inspection. You can reach our experts at Saniservice by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com.