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

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, and when I opened it up, there seemed to be some mold growing on the back wall. My kids have been complaining of coughing fits especially at night, and I suspect it might be related to the mold. Who is responsible for addressing this issue—me or the landlord?
Posted by Salim Al-Salem
Asked on December 12, 2025 12:20 am
In the UAE and specifically Dubai, the responsibility for addressing mold issues can sometimes be a bit murky. Typically, in residential properties like your home, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and ensuring that it is safe for habitation. This includes addressing any significant moisture or mold problems.

However, when it comes to minor cosmetic damage such as small areas of mold growth, especially if caused by a one-time event like heavy rainfall, tenants might be expected to address these issues promptly. This is based on many landlords' terms and conditions which often stipulate that tenants are responsible for maintaining the premises in good condition during their tenancy.

Given your situation with the closet mold and your kids experiencing asthma-like symptoms such as coughing fits at night, it's crucial to act quickly. Mold can indeed trigger or exacerbate respiratory issues like asthma, particularly among children who might be more vulnerable due to their developing immune systems.

I highly recommend conducting a professional inspection by contacting a certified environmental inspector here in the UAE. Saniservice offers reliable mold testing services and can provide you with detailed reports on the extent of the problem and recommended remediation steps. You may call them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an appointment.

If the mold situation is indeed severe, as it seems to be given your description, you should notify your landlord immediately. It's important to keep a record of your observations and any communications with them regarding this issue. If there’s no response from the landlord after giving them reasonable time to address the problem, you might consider escalating the matter to your local real estate authority or consumer protection department.

Remember, your health and that of your family comes first. Taking proactive steps now can prevent further issues down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 13, 2025 5:25 pm