Is my landlord responsible for closet mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for mold remediation is typically determined by the cause of the moisture issue. Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are legally obligated to provide a habitable property and are responsible for rectifying structural or maintenance-related defects that lead to mold growth. This includes issues like leaking pipes, faulty AC drainage, or inadequate insulation that causes condensation—a common problem in Dubai's high-humidity climate where AC units run year-round.

However, if the moisture is determined to be a result of tenant behavior (e.g., insufficient ventilation, drying clothes indoors), the responsibility may fall to you. The black, speckled patches and worsening musty smell in a closet indicate a persistent humidity problem. The constant dehumidifier use suggests you are taking action, but the issue is likely beyond tenant-controlled ventilation.

The critical first step is a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector, like those at Saniservice, will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species (e.g., Stachybotrys, or common Cladosporium) and, crucially, use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source. This report is vital evidence to formally present to your landlord, as it objectively determines the cause and outlines the required remediation scope.

Do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize toxins and spread contamination. For a definitive assessment and to discuss your case with experts, I recommend you call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. They can provide the necessary documentation to resolve the liability question with your landlord and execute a safe, effective remediation.