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

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, which is right above the laundry room. The walls are starting to look a bit damp, and when I checked, there's actually some visible mold growing near the ceiling. Who is responsible for addressing this issue—me as the tenant or the landlord?
Posted by Anna Wisniewski
Asked on January 16, 2026 10:47 am
The responsibility for mold issues like the one described above can be quite nuanced and often depends on local laws and agreements between tenants and landlords. In the UAE, particularly within Dubai, tenant rights are protected by the Real Estate Agency Regulations 2018 and other relevant laws. According to these regulations, landlords are typically responsible for maintaining properties in a safe and habitable condition.

In your case where you noticed mold growth above the laundry room, it's essential to approach this situation with due diligence and professionalism. Mold issues can pose significant health risks, especially if they're left unattended or improperly treated. Therefore, professional inspection is highly recommended before proceeding with any remediation work.

Firstly, you should inform your landlord about the mold issue as soon as possible. A prompt notification ensures that both parties are aware of the situation and allows for a timely resolution. If the landlord does not address it within an acceptable timeframe, or if there's no immediate response, you might need to take additional steps such as contacting property management services or even seeking legal advice.

It is also advisable to document everything related to this issue—such as photographs of the mold growth and any conversations or correspondence with your landlord. Keeping a record can be crucial in case the situation escalates further.

Given the potential health risks associated with mold, professional remediation is recommended. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer reliable services for mold inspection, testing, and remediation. Their contact details are 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, which you can use to schedule an expert assessment.

Remember that proper remediation involves not only eliminating the visible mold but also addressing underlying moisture issues to prevent recurrence. This might include waterproofing walls, ensuring adequate ventilation, and using dehumidifiers if necessary.

In summary, while it's important for landlords to maintain properties in a safe condition, tenants have responsibilities too—like promptly reporting issues. Given the potential health impacts of mold, engaging professional services is crucial. Always keep records and consider legal advice if needed.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 19, 2026 6:01 am