Is this bedroom mold my landlord's responsibility to fix?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for addressing the root cause of the mold, which is the underlying moisture issue. This includes repairing leaks, fixing faulty waterproofing, or addressing structural defects that allow dampness to penetrate. The responsibility for the mold removal itself can depend on the tenancy contract, but the landlord's obligation to provide a habitable property generally extends to fixing the resulting damage.

In your case, the timing suggests it's related to the recent high humidity and possibly condensation, which is a very common issue here. The wall behind a wardrobe is a classic problem spot because air circulation is restricted, allowing condensation to form and mold to grow. This is often exacerbated by year-round AC use creating temperature differentials within the walls.

For a proper resolution, the moisture source must be identified and fixed first. Simply cleaning the visible mold is a temporary solution. A professional inspection can determine if this is superficial condensation or a sign of a more serious leak or insulation issue the landlord must repair. They can also assess the extent of the growth behind the wardrobe, which is often worse than what is visible.

Regarding health and your belongings, yes, this type of mold can cause irritation and allergic reactions, and it can damage fabrics. Move the wardrobe away from the wall immediately to improve air circulation and inspect your clothes for any growth.

Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, and request they send a technician to identify and repair the moisture source. They are obligated to investigate. For the actual remediation, if the area is significant (generally over 1-2 square meters), a professional service using containment and air scrubbing is advised to prevent spores from spreading to other areas, including your wardrobe. If the landlord disputes responsibility, refer to your tenancy contract and the Dubai Land Department's guidelines on maintenance obligations.