Is landlord responsible for mold inspection in rental closet?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues like water leaks or faulty AC systems that lead to dampness and mold. If the mold is a result of a building envelope issue, such as a leaking pipe in the wall or a faulty AC drain line causing condensation, the repair and remediation cost typically falls on the landlord.

However, the responsibility for an inspection can be less clear-cut initially. The damp smell in a closet, especially in a humid environment like Marina, often points to condensation from an improperly insulated external wall or an AC unit not adequately dehumidifying that specific area. You should formally notify your landlord or property manager in writing about the issue, as this starts a paper trail. They are obligated to investigate the cause.

Given the visible mold on your belongings, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the moisture source. In many cases, the landlord will arrange this, but be prepared that if the investigation reveals the cause is tenant-related (e.g., lack of ventilation, blocked air vents), you could be liable. For a definitive answer on species and source identification, a certified mold inspection with lab analysis of samples is the most reliable path. This provides concrete evidence of the root cause for any discussions with the landlord.