Is landlord responsible for moldy clothes from damp closet?« Back to Previous Page

This depends on the source of the moisture. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. If the dampness is due to a structural issue like a leaking pipe, faulty waterproofing, or a crack in the exterior wall, the landlord is obligated to repair it. The high humidity here can exacerbate any minor leak into a major mold problem.

Your first step is to immediately notify the landlord or property manager in writing, with photos of the damp wall and the damaged items. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean the mold off the clothes until the issue is resolved, as the spores will likely just return.

For your belongings, compensation is typically negotiated. Landlords are generally not responsible for tenant possessions unless their negligence in maintaining the property directly caused the damage. The outcome often hinges on proving the structural defect was pre-existing and not caused by tenant activities like inadequate ventilation.

Store your clothes in sealed plastic containers, not cardboard boxes, and consider using moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs in closets, especially during Dubai's humid summer months. A dehumidifier can also help manage ambient moisture in the apartment.