Is black mold in my rental closet my responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Good question. This is a very common issue in Dubai, especially in areas like Marina with high humidity levels. Here’s a breakdown of your responsibilities versus the landlord's.

First, the damp feeling and subsequent mold growth strongly suggest a lack of proper airflow in that closet. Running the AC constantly lowers the overall humidity, but closets, especially those on external walls, can become dead air spaces where condensation forms. The black mold is a symptom of this persistent moisture.

Under UAE rental law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the responsibility for maintenance is typically split. The tenant is generally responsible for minor, interior maintenance. However, the landlord is responsible for the structural integrity of the property. This includes issues with the building envelope, insulation, and hidden plumbing leaks that could be causing the dampness. Since the mold is on the wall itself, it could indicate a deeper problem, like a leak from an adjacent bathroom or insufficient insulation against the outside humidity.

My professional recommendation is this:
1. Immediately inform your landlord or property management company in writing. They need to be made aware of the issue to assess if it's structural. Do not attempt a major cleanup yourself yet, as you could inadvertently disturb toxic spores.
2. For a proper assessment, a professional inspection is crucial. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture—whether it's condensation, infiltration, or a leak. This evidence is vital for determining liability.

If the landlord determines it's not a structural issue, then yes, the cleaning would fall to you. But it must be done correctly with EPA-approved antimicrobials, not just bleach. For a case like this, I’d strongly advise getting a professional evaluation to protect your health and your security deposit.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a detailed inspection and report you can provide to your landlord.