Is landlord responsible for bedroom mold and damaged clothes?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is typically responsible for addressing the structural cause of the mold, such as fixing a water leak or repairing faulty insulation that leads to condensation. However, tenant responsibilities include proper ventilation, such as not blocking AC units and reporting issues promptly. The damp feeling despite constant AC use suggests a possible underlying issue like a leak in the wall or an AC drain line blockage.

In Dubai’s climate, continuous AC operation without proper unit maintenance can paradoxically create cold surfaces where moisture condenses, especially behind large furniture like wardrobes. This trapped moisture is a primary cause of mold growth.

For your health, the headaches are a common symptom of mold exposure, particularly in a bedroom where you spend hours breathing the air. You should immediately move the wardrobe away from the wall, clean the visible mold with a vinegar or diluted bleach solution (wearing a mask and gloves), and thoroughly air out the room and your clothes. Wash or dry-clean any affected clothing.

Document everything with photos and formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, requesting they investigate and repair the source. For a definitive cause and remediation plan, a professional inspection is advised. A certified mold assessment can identify the moisture source and species, which is useful evidence if the landlord is unresponsive. If the landlord fails to act on the structural repair after written notification, you may escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department or the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre.