Who is responsible for mold in closet?« Back to Previous Page

The situation you described regarding mold growth in your closet is concerning and indeed calls for prompt attention. In the UAE specifically, especially in areas such as Dubai which often face high humidity levels due to climate conditions, mold can be a significant issue.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that in the context of rented properties, according to the UAE Federal Law No. 19 of 2003 (the Civil Transactions Law) and supporting real estate regulations in Dubai, tenants are generally responsible for maintaining the condition of their rental property as per its initial state or agreed-upon condition with the landlord. However, if the mold growth is due to a structural issue such as water leakage from a pipe or poor building maintenance that the landlord should have addressed, then it would fall under the landlord's responsibility.

Given your description of the situation - a musty smell and visible patches on walls - suggests the presence of active mold growth. This situation warrants professional inspection for accurate assessment. In Dubai, you can contact specialized environmental companies such as Saniservice (hello@saniservice.com or call 800-MOLDS/800-66537) who are well versed with local regulations and conditions.

Mold remediation is a detailed process that involves identifying the source of moisture, eliminating it, and then thoroughly cleaning and treating affected areas to prevent further growth. Professional intervention ensures compliance with local health standards and prevents potential long-term health effects from mold exposure.

In addition to immediate professional action, consider taking some preliminary steps:
• Document the extent of mold damage by photographing the area.
• Avoid touching or disturbing the mold as this can spread it throughout your living space.
• Ensure good ventilation in the affected area if possible.
• Use protective gear such as masks and gloves when assessing the situation.

It's also advisable to communicate with your landlord about the issue, even though you might not have received a response so far. Provide them with detailed documentation of the mold presence and any attempts made by you to address it. If no resolution is forthcoming, consider escalating the matter through local consumer protection services or legal advice specific to tenant rights in the UAE.

Remember, early intervention can prevent more extensive damage and costly remediation processes down the line. The key takeaway here is that while tenants are typically responsible for maintaining their space, when issues arise due to inherent property conditions, landlords have a role to play as well.