Landlord's responsibility for mold in Dubai apartment closet?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking pipes in the walls, or inadequate ventilation systems that lead to persistent dampness. If the mold growth in your closet is a result of a leak from an adjacent bathroom or a crack in the external wall, the repair and remediation obligation falls on the landlord.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining general cleanliness and ensuring adequate airflow to prevent condensation, which is a primary driver of mold in Dubai's high-humidity climate. The recent spike you mentioned is a key factor. Mold on silicone sealant in a closed closet is frequently caused by condensation from the constant cycling of AC, which creates a damp, stagnant micro-environment.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with clear photos, and request an inspection to determine the moisture source. Do not attempt to clean it with bleach, as this can exacerbate the problem for certain mold types and only addresses surface appearance, not the root cause. If the landlord disputes responsibility or the problem is severe with a strong musty odor, a professional inspection can identify the moisture source and mold species, providing an evidence-based report to clarify liability. For a persistent issue like this, verifiable data from a moisture meter and surface samples is often needed to resolve tenancy disputes.