Is my landlord responsible for closet mold from water seepage?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, your landlord is typically responsible for addressing the root cause of this mold, as it stems from a structural issue—water seepage through the wall. Under UAE tenancy law, the landlord is obligated to maintain the property's structure and ensure it is habitable, which includes fixing leaks in the building envelope.

However, the initial cleanup of the superficial mold growth inside the closet often falls to the tenant. Since you've already aired it out with no improvement, the moisture is likely still active within the wall cavity. Simply wiping the visible spots will not solve the problem; the source of the moisture must be stopped first.

For a leak that occurred during the March rains, the wall's internal structure may still be damp, creating a perfect environment for mold in Dubai's humid climate. You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the seepage and resulting mold, requesting they repair the external wall's waterproofing.

Once the leak is permanently fixed, a professional inspection can determine if remediation inside the closet is needed. Spores from active growth can become airborne, so proper containment and removal are important for your indoor air quality.