Who is responsible for closet humidity in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Excellent question, and a very common issue here in Dubai, especially in high-rises in the Marina with the recent spike in humidity. Let's break down the responsibility and the technical reasons behind your closet humidity.

Primarily, the landlord is responsible for providing a habitable unit with a fully functional air conditioning system. Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended) regulating the relationship between landlords and tenants places the onus on the landlord to maintain the property's central structure and essential services, which includes the central AC system if it is provided. The AC is not just for cooling; in our climate, its primary role is dehumidification.

Your closet is likely a "dead zone" with little to no air circulation from the main AC system. This allows moist, warm air from the daily opening/closing to become trapped. When the air cools overnight, the moisture condenses on your clothes and walls, leading to that mildew smell. First, check your lease agreement—it should outline maintenance responsibilities. Immediately report the issue in writing to your landlord/property manager. They must ensure the building's central chiller is operating at correct capacity and that the AC vents are properly balanced to deliver adequate airflow to all rooms.

However, if the AC is functional but the closet design itself is the problem (e.g., no vent, sealed doors), this may fall into a grey area. For a definitive answer and to protect your belongings from mold damage, a professional inspection is crucial. We can perform precise hygrothermal imaging to identify the moisture source and provide a report for your landlord.

Don't wait, as this can quickly escalate into a health and property issue. For an immediate assessment, call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.