Is damp, moldy closet wall a landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the description of a damp back wall in a Jumeirah Village closet with black speckles, this is highly indicative of active mold growth, a common issue in Dubai exacerbated by our high humidity levels and year-round air conditioning, which can cause significant condensation.

Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Article 17 of Law No. 26 of 2007, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property and carrying out all necessary repairs to ensure it is habitable, unless the tenancy contract states otherwise. Structural defects, such as a potential building leak or inadequate insulation leading to this dampness, are unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify. Your responsibility as a tenant is typically limited to general upkeep and reporting the issue promptly, which you have done.

The correlation with your allergy symptoms is a serious health concern. Mold spores can significantly degrade indoor air quality and cause respiratory issues.

This situation requires a professional inspection. A certified mold inspector can conduct moisture mapping and air quality testing to identify the precise moisture source—whether it's an internal leak, rising damp, or condensation from AC ducts—and determine the extent of the infestation. Attempting to clean visible mold without addressing the underlying moisture problem will result in rapid regrowth.

For a definitive assessment and remediation plan that complies with Dubai Municipality standards, I strongly recommend contacting our specialists. We can provide the necessary documentation for your landlord and execute the proper remediation. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.