Is landlord responsible for recurring black mold in closet?« Back to Previous Page

Recurring black mold in a closet is typically the landlord's responsibility to fix, as it usually indicates a building envelope or maintenance issue. Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords must ensure the property is habitable and maintained in good condition, which includes addressing structural defects that cause persistent dampness and mold growth.

The root cause is likely a hidden issue your vinegar wipe-down can't solve. In JVC, the high humidity and heavy dew create significant condensation, especially on poorly insulated exterior walls. The mold is returning because the wall's temperature is dropping below the dew point, allowing moisture to condense inside the structure. This could be due to a leaking pipe in the wall, a crack in the building's exterior, or insufficient thermal insulation.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing, detailing the issue and its recurrence. Include photos. They are generally obligated to investigate and rectify the source of the moisture intrusion. Simply treating the visible mold is considered temporary upkeep; addressing the structural cause is their duty.

For a definitive report, a professional inspection using a thermal imaging camera can pinpoint the exact condensation point and moisture source. This evidence is invaluable for discussions with your landlord, as it moves the conversation from a cosmetic complaint to a documented building defect.