Tenant or landlord responsible for closet mold and repainting?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai's tenancy law, responsibility typically depends on the cause of the mold. If the issue stems from a structural problem with the building, like a hidden water leak from a pipe in the wall or faulty external waterproofing, the landlord is generally responsible for the repairs and resultant repainting. This is because they are obligated to provide a habitable property.

However, if the mold is due to tenant-related lifestyle factors—such as inadequate ventilation, drying clothes indoors, or failing to use the AC to control humidity—the cost of remediation and repainting would likely fall to the tenant. Your situation in Jumeirah Village, following a humid spell, points strongly to condensation. Apartments here are highly susceptible to mold on cold walls, especially in closets or behind furniture where air circulation is poor. The year-round AC creates a significant temperature differential that leads to condensation on any cooler surface.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property manager in writing, with photos, and request an inspection to determine the source. Do not simply paint over it, as the mold will return. For a proper fix, the wall must be treated by a professional service that can diagnose if a leak is present. If no leak is found, improving air circulation in the closet, using a dehumidifier, and ensuring your AC is set to a consistent, cooler temperature can help prevent recurrence. The cost of repainting is tied to the outcome of that initial cause assessment.