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

Our bedroom closet on the outside wall has developed these black and green fuzzy patches, and it’s been getting worse since the heavy humidity a couple of weeks ago. All our winter clothes and some shoes stored in there now smell awful. I’ve cleaned the visible mold with vinegar, but I’m worried it’s inside the wall itself. As a tenant in Jumeirah Village Circle, am I responsible for paying for the full professional mold removal, or is my landlord required to handle something like this since it might be a building or ventilation issue?
Posted by Mary Williams
Asked on March 31, 2026 6:30 am
Based on your description of black and green fuzzy growth on an exterior wall that has worsened with high humidity, this is a classic case of a moisture intrusion issue, likely exacerbated by Dubai's climate. The musty odor on your belongings confirms active microbial growth, and the fact that it returned after a surface cleaning with vinegar strongly indicates a deeper problem within the wall cavity, possibly due to condensation from year-round AC use or a latent leak.

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically dictated by the cause. According to standard rental contract terms (Law No. 26 of 2007), structural defects and issues related to the building's envelope, such as external wall leaks or inadequate ventilation systems, are the legal responsibility of the landlord to rectify. As a tenant in JVC, you are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring proper ventilation through regular AC servicing. However, since the growth is concentrated on an exterior wall and has persisted despite cleaning, the root cause is almost certainly a structural or ventilation-related moisture issue, placing the obligation on your landlord.

We strongly advise against further DIY attempts. Disturbing the mold can aerosolize spores, contaminating other areas. A professional inspection is critical to identify the hidden moisture source, assess the full extent of the contamination, and provide a definitive report for your landlord. This report will detail the cause and the required remediation protocol, which is essential for determining liability.

For a comprehensive assessment and to get the proper documentation for your landlord, contact our certified specialists. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 7:33 pm