Is landlord responsible for mold in wardrobe and clothes?« Back to Previous Page

Landlord responsibility for mold in the UAE depends on the source of the moisture. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for fixing issues related to the building's structure and maintenance of central AC systems.

If the mold is due to a leak in the external wall, a faulty seal around the window, or inadequate insulation causing persistent condensation within the wall cavity, the landlord is typically responsible for the remediation and repairs. However, if the issue is solely from internal humidity and lack of air circulation in a closed wardrobe—even with the AC running—the tenant may be deemed responsible for not ventilating the storage space adequately.

Given Dubai's high humidity, especially after recent rains, condensation can form in closed-off areas like wardrobes on exterior walls. Running AC cools the room but doesn't necessarily circulate dry air into packed, enclosed spaces. Your landlord's claim about ventilation isn't entirely unfounded, but the root cause needs professional diagnosis.

For your situation, document everything with photos and dates. Request a professional mold inspection to identify the moisture source. An inspector can determine if it's a construction flaw or an environmental humidity issue. This evidence is crucial for any discussion with your landlord or the Dubai Rental Dispute Center.

Regarding your damaged clothes, liability for replacement follows the same determination of fault. Do not attempt to clean moldy fabrics yourself, as improper cleaning can set the spores and odor. A professional hygienization service with ozone or hydroxyl treatment can often salvage them, but this depends on the extent of the damage. For a case this advanced, involving both property and contents, a professional assessment is the necessary first step to resolve responsibility.