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

This is a very common issue we see in JVC apartments, especially during the high-humidity months. The constant AC operation can actually create a microclimate in a closed-off closet where cold air doesn't circulate properly, leading to condensation and dampness on the cooler walls – a perfect breeding ground for mold.

Under UAE law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai, the landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity of the property and for carrying out maintenance related to major defects. The key question is the source of the moisture. If the mold is due to a structural issue like a hidden water leak from a pipe in the wall, a faulty external waterproofing membrane, or a crack in the building envelope, then the financial responsibility for both repairing the leak and the subsequent mold remediation falls squarely on the landlord.

However, if the moisture is solely attributed to condensation from daily living activities (like storing slightly damp clothes) combined with poor air circulation in the closet, the tenant may be responsible for the cleaning. That said, the landlord is still typically responsible for providing a properly functioning AC system that adequately controls humidity throughout the entire leased unit.

Given that you've discovered active growth spreading on the wall, this is beyond a simple wipe-down. The underlying cause must be diagnosed. I strongly recommend a professional inspection. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the water intrusion without destructive investigation. This report is crucial for determining liability with your landlord.

For a definitive assessment and to discuss this with your landlord from a position of knowledge, please call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can spread spores and exacerbate the problem.