Mold in closet: DIY fix or landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, this is almost certainly a sign of a significant underlying moisture issue, not a surface problem you can fix with a cleaner. The quick return of dampness and the characteristic earthy odor indicate an active and persistent source of water.

In the Dubai climate, this is a common issue. The primary suspect is condensation due to the extreme humidity interacting with cold surfaces. Your closet is on an outside wall, which is often where the building's air conditioning chilled water lines or cold water pipes are routed. If there is insufficient insulation, these cold pipes cause the warm, humid air to condense, creating a constant source of moisture—the perfect environment for mold. A less common but serious cause could be a leak in the building's envelope or plumbing.

Vinegar is a mild, temporary solution for surface mold on non-porous materials but is completely ineffective at addressing the root cause of the moisture. It will not stop the mold from returning.

Under UAE tenancy law, the structural integrity of the building and the functionality of its core systems (like plumbing and AC) are the landlord's responsibility. A persistent dampness issue stemming from the wall structure or internal piping falls squarely under their obligation to remediate.

I strongly recommend you immediately contact your landlord and request a professional inspection. Attempting a DIY fix could allow the problem to worsen, leading to potential health risks and damage to your belongings and the property structure. For a definitive assessment and remediation plan, our certified team at Saniservice can perform a thorough inspection using moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.