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

Our master bedroom closet in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has had a weird damp smell for a couple of months, and I finally pulled everything out to find black speckles all over the back wall. We run the AC constantly, but it feels like the humidity just gets trapped in there. Is the landlord responsible for fixing the cause of this mold, or is cleaning it out my job as the tenant?
Posted by James Jones
Asked on March 24, 2026 2:26 am
Based on UAE tenancy law, specifically Law No. (26) of 2007, the landlord is generally responsible for the structural integrity and maintenance of the property's major systems. This includes addressing the underlying cause of mold, such as a hidden water leak, faulty waterproofing, or a defective AC unit that is producing excessive condensation. The presence of mold in a closet wall in JVC is a strong indicator of a persistent moisture issue that is likely beyond simple surface humidity.

However, the tenant is responsible for maintaining adequate ventilation and reporting issues in a timely manner. Given that you run the AC constantly, the problem may be a malfunctioning AC system not dehumidifying properly, or a more serious construction-related infiltration. The high humidity and constant cooling in Dubai create a significant risk of condensation within wall cavities, especially if insulation or vapor barriers are inadequate.

We strongly recommend you immediately inform your landlord in writing and request a professional mold inspection. Surface cleaning without identifying and remediating the source is a temporary fix and the mold will return. A certified inspector will conduct moisture mapping and thermal imaging to locate the moisture source, perform air and surface sampling to identify the mold species, and provide a detailed remediation protocol.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your health and the property are protected, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 3:57 pm