Is landlord responsible for mold from apartment dampness?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the conditions you've described in your JVT apartment, this is a very common issue we see here in Dubai, especially during the high humidity months. The dampness behind the wardrobe is a classic sign of condensation, where warm, humid air is contacting a cooler surface (likely an exterior wall), leading to moisture accumulation and subsequent mold growth.

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes addressing issues related to building envelope defects that cause water ingress or persistent dampness. However, the responsibility can become blurred with condensation. If the dampness is a result of a structural issue like a hidden pipe leak or insufficient insulation in the exterior wall, it falls squarely on the landlord to repair it. If it's purely due to lifestyle factors and inadequate ventilation, the tenant may be expected to mitigate it with dehumidifiers.

The presence of black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is a health concern and should be addressed professionally, not just wiped away. We strongly recommend a professional inspection to determine the exact moisture source. Our certified technicians can conduct moisture mapping and air quality testing to provide a definitive report on the cause, which is often necessary to formally communicate with your landlord or building management.

For a proper assessment and to get the evidence you might need, please give us a call at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Let's get that sorted before it becomes a bigger problem.