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

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically governed by the terms of your tenancy contract and Law No. (26) of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. Generally, structural issues and problems inherent to the property itself, such as leaks in external walls, faulty air conditioning systems leading to excessive condensation, or inadequate ventilation, are the legal responsibility of the landlord to rectify. Given that you are in an older Jumeirah building and the issue coincides with a period of high humidity, the root cause is likely related to the building's envelope or HVAC performance, which falls under the landlord's purview.

However, as a tenant, you have an obligation to report the issue immediately and take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photographs, as delay can exacerbate the problem and potentially make you liable for additional damages. Do not attempt to clean significant Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) growth yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize harmful mycotoxins, creating a greater health risk and contaminating your belongings.

The humid Dubai climate, combined with year-round AC use, creates perfect conditions for mold in enclosed spaces like closets. This requires a professional inspection to identify the precise moisture source—be it condensation, a hidden leak, or intrusion. We strongly recommend you contact a certified mold inspection and remediation company like Saniservice. Our experts can conduct a comprehensive assessment, provide a detailed report for your landlord, and execute the necessary containment, hygienization, and removal protocols to safeguard your health and property. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.