Is closet mold from AC leak a landlord emergency?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, this qualifies as an emergency that should be reported to your landlord immediately.

The combination of a chronic water leak from the AC unit and visible mold growth on your personal belongings creates a significant indoor health issue that requires urgent attention. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, which includes the central AC system and any damage its failure causes. The persistent humidity we experience accelerates mold growth, meaning the problem will only worsen and spread to walls and other contents if not addressed.

First, document everything with photos and videos, showing the leak source, the water damage, and the mold on your jackets. Send this evidence to your landlord or property manager in writing (email is best) today to officially notify them and start the clock on their required response. Move the affected items out of the closet to prevent further contamination; the jackets will likely need professional cleaning or disposal.

For a leak of this duration, a simple fix may not be enough. The insulation inside the closet wall and the wallboard itself are probably saturated, requiring professional drying and likely replacement to prevent the mold from returning. Given the extent of growth you describe, a proper inspection and post-remediation verification, often involving lab testing, are recommended to ensure it is resolved completely. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize spores throughout your bedroom.