Is landlord responsible for mold damage to my belongings?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility typically falls on the landlord to fix the source of the mold, as it's considered a property maintenance issue under most standard tenancy contracts. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, especially during summer and recent rain, often leads to condensation in poorly ventilated areas like closets on exterior walls. This is a building envelope issue the owner must address.

For your damaged belongings, this is less clear-cut. You would need to demonstrate the damage was due to a structural fault the landlord was aware of and failed to rectify, not a routine humidity issue. Check your contract for any specific clauses about tenant liability for mold or content damage.

First, notify your landlord or property manager in writing immediately, with photos. They are obligated to investigate and remediate the source, which likely involves identifying and fixing a condensation problem or potential water intrusion. Do not attempt to remove it yourself with bleach, as this can worsen airborne spores.

For your clothes, professional mold remediation cleaning can salvage many items, but some porous materials may be permanently damaged. A certified indoor health professional can provide an inspection report documenting the cause and extent, which is essential evidence for any discussion about compensation for belongings. In JVC, this type of condensation-driven mold is common, and a proper fix should include improving ventilation or insulating the affected wall to prevent recurrence.