Is landlord responsible for closet mold on damp wall?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the symptoms you've described, this is a structural dampness issue, not a simple surface cleaning problem. The dampness on the exterior wall is the root cause, and the mold on your belongings is merely the symptom. The closet's location and the persistent damp feeling indicate a potential thermal bridge or a minor breach in the building envelope, which is common in Dubai due to the high humidity and constant air conditioning creating significant condensation differentials.

Under UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are typically responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues like water seepage, faulty insulation, and rising damp that originate from the building's structure. Your responsibility is to promptly notify the landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, as delaying can lead to further damage for which you could be held liable.

Do not attempt to clean the items or the wall with off-the-shelf products. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize spores, contaminating other areas of your apartment. A professional inspection is critical to identify the exact moisture source, assess the extent of the mold growth (which may be inside the wall cavity), and provide a legally valid report for your landlord.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your landlord addresses the root cause, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. We can perform a comprehensive inspection with moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the leak or condensation issue, providing you with a certified report to present to your landlord. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.