Is landlord responsible for mold behind bedroom wardrobe?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, landlord and tenant responsibilities for mold remediation are governed by Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects or faulty installations, such as a compromised building envelope, leaking central AC chilled water pipes within the walls, or faulty external waterproofing that leads to moisture intrusion.

Your situation in Jumeirah Village Triangle is a common one, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and the constant operation of AC units, which can cause significant condensation if not properly balanced or if there is an underlying issue. The dampness behind the wardrobe strongly suggests a condensation hotspot or a potential leak, not just ambient humidity. The landlord is typically responsible for investigating and rectifying the source of this moisture. This includes repairing any leaks and the resultant damage to the wall structure.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining adequate ventilation to prevent condensation buildup, which is a frequent challenge in our climate. While the AC runs constantly, if it's not set to an appropriate temperature or if the unit itself is faulty and not dehumidifying correctly, it can contribute to the problem.

We strongly recommend you inform your landlord immediately and request a professional inspection. A certified mold inspector can use thermal imaging and moisture meters to accurately identify the source of the moisture—whether it's a leak, rising damp, or severe condensation—which is critical for determining liability and the correct remediation protocol. Simply cleaning the visible mold without addressing the root cause will lead to rapid regrowth.

For a definitive assessment and resolution, our team at Saniservice can provide a comprehensive inspection and report. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an evaluation.