Is landlord responsible for closet mold in Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Our bedroom closet in our Jumeirah Village apartment started smelling a bit damp a couple of months ago, and I just pulled everything out to find black mold spreading on the back wall. We run the AC constantly, but the dehumidifier in this older building is probably weak. Is the landlord responsible for the mold remediation and repainting, or since we’ve lived here for a year, is treating it considered our cost?
Posted by Minho Tanaka
Asked on April 6, 2026 6:41 am
In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause, as outlined in Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007). The landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes the building envelope, AC systems, and plumbing that prevent moisture intrusion. Given your location in Jumeirah Village and the description of a weak dehumidifier in the AC unit, the root cause appears to be a malfunctioning HVAC system. Since the landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property with functioning essential systems, the remediation and repainting of the closet wall are likely their financial responsibility.

However, you must formally notify the landlord in writing of the issue immediately. The persistent high humidity and constant AC use in our climate create a perfect environment for condensation and mold growth if the HVAC is not properly balanced or maintained. We strongly recommend against attempting to clean this yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize spores and spread contamination.

For a definitive assessment of the cause and extent, a professional inspection is essential. Our certified team at Saniservice can perform a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to provide an official report for your landlord. This documentation is crucial for substantiating your claim. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 8, 2026 9:43 pm