Is landlord responsible for closet mold and damaged items?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the description of the issue in your Jumeirah Village Triangle apartment, this is a classic case of mold growth due to condensation, a common problem in Dubai's climate. The enclosed closet space lacks adequate air circulation from your AC, creating a microclimate with high relative humidity, especially after heavy fog events. The condensation provides the moisture necessary for mold to colonize.

Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. This includes addressing the underlying cause of the mold, such as investigating and rectifying any potential construction defects, inadequate insulation, or faulty HVAC systems that prevent proper humidity control. They are obligated to repair the wall and remediate the mold source.

However, tenant responsibilities include proper ventilation and routine maintenance to prevent avoidable moisture accumulation. Continuously running the AC is a positive step, but it must be paired with periodically opening closet doors to allow conditioned air to circulate and keep humidity levels below 60%, which inhibits mold growth.

Regarding your damaged personal items, liability is typically determined by proving negligence. If the landlord fails to act upon your notification to fix the underlying issue, they could be held responsible. Conversely, if the damage is deemed a result of tenant neglect (e.g., completely blocking ventilation), the responsibility may fall to you.

Given the visible growth, a professional inspection is critical. We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source and assess the extent of the contamination. DIY cleaning often fails to address the root cause. For a thorough assessment and certified remediation, I recommend contacting our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.