Who is responsible for damp wall repair in JVC?« Back to Previous Page

That damp, cold wall with black speckles behind your wardrobe is a classic sign of condensation-driven mold growth, a very common issue in JVC apartments due to our high humidity and year-round AC use. The wall is likely an exterior one, and the cold air from your AC unit is causing moisture in the warm air to condense on the colder surface behind the furniture, creating the perfect damp environment for mold.

Under standard Dubai rental contracts (EJARI), the landlord is typically responsible for repairs related to the building's structure and integrity, which includes addressing the root cause of dampness, such as external water seepage or faulty insulation. The tenant is usually responsible for maintenance arising from internal negligence, like not using the AC adequately to control humidity.

However, this specific scenario is a grey area. Since the issue appears directly linked to the building's thermal performance and climate conditions, you should formally notify your landlord or property management company immediately. They are generally obligated to investigate and fix the source of the moisture intrusion. The cost of remediating the mold itself and repairing the wall often falls to them if it's a structural issue.

Do not attempt to simply paint over it. A professional inspection is crucial to determine the exact moisture source and extent of the mold growth, which may be more widespread behind the wall. This assessment provides the documentation needed to clarify responsibility with your landlord. While you wait for a response, move the wardrobe away from the wall to improve air circulation, which can help reduce further condensation.