Is landlord responsible for black mold behind wardrobe?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Discovery Gardens apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold spreading on the wall behind our wardrobe. It's been really humid lately, and we've had the AC running constantly. Is this something I need to fix myself, or is my landlord responsible for the remediation costs?
Posted by Piotr Fernandez
Asked on April 5, 2026 5:38 pm
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is primarily governed by the tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended). The general principle is that the landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the main structure of the property, including issues arising from inherent building defects or faulty infrastructure, such as leaking central AC condensation lines or seepage from external walls. The tenant is typically responsible for damages resulting from their own negligence or failure to maintain the property adequately.

In your case at Discovery Gardens, the persistent high humidity and constant AC use are critical factors. If the mold behind the wardrobe is due to condensation caused by a temperature differential between the cold wall (potentially from an AC unit placed directly opposite) and the humid air, this is often considered a maintenance issue. However, if the mold is a result of a hidden water leak from plumbing within the wall or a faulty sealant allowing moisture ingress from the building exterior, this would likely be the landlord's responsibility.

Given the concealed location, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to determine the exact moisture source. DIY cleaning is inadvisable as it only addresses surface growth, not the root cause, and improper handling can aerosolize spores, exacerbating the problem. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the origin conclusively. This detailed technical report is essential for formally communicating with your landlord or building management to establish liability.

For a definitive diagnosis and to protect your health and property, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 7, 2026 9:24 am