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

In Dubai's climate, the high humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning create prime conditions for mold growth, particularly in enclosed spaces like closets on exterior walls where condensation can occur. Determining responsibility for remediation hinges on the source of the moisture.

According to UAE tenancy law, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. If the mold is a result of a structural defect, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, a crack in the building envelope allowing water ingress, or a failure of the building's central air conditioning system leading to excessive humidity, then the remediation cost falls to the landlord.

However, tenant liability applies if the moisture issue is due to lifestyle factors, such as inadequate ventilation within the apartment, drying clothes indoors, or failing to run the AC consistently to manage humidity levels. In your case, the correlation with the recent spike in humidity suggests an environmental cause, but the specific source must be identified.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to determine the exact cause. Our certified experts use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to differentiate between condensation and an internal leak—a critical distinction for liability. Attempting to clean visible growth without addressing the underlying moisture source will result in rapid recurrence. The damp smell on your clothes indicates potential airborne spore contamination, which requires professional hygienization.

For a definitive assessment and to understand your rights and responsibilities, please contact our team. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive evaluation and a clear path to resolution.