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

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange dampness in the closet near the balcony, and it smells musty. The AC seems to be struggling too, maybe because of all that moisture. Who is responsible for cleaning up this mold and ensuring the area stays dry—me as the tenant or should I be reaching out to my landlord?
Posted by Juergen Dubois
Asked on February 21, 2026 9:03 am
0
In the UAE, specifically in Dubai, building regulations and responsibilities can sometimes be vague. Generally speaking, if you notice dampness and mold in a closet near your balcony after rainfall, there are certain steps to take.

Firstly, it's important to understand that in most rental agreements, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of properties and ensuring areas like balconies and common walls are free from water damage. However, it’s also crucial for tenants to report any issues promptly so they don't worsen. In your case, given the persistent dampness and musty smell, I would advise contacting your landlord immediately.

Typically, landlords will take responsibility once informed of such issues. However, if there's no response or you're unsure about who should be responsible, it’s wise to seek professional advice. You could consider calling a service provider like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for an inspection and remediation.

Remember, mold can cause serious health issues, especially in areas with high humidity such as bathrooms or near balconies where condensation might occur. Ensuring the area stays dry is crucial; you may need to adjust your AC settings or consider dehumidifiers if the air conditioning isn't sufficient.

In Dubai, it's common for tenants and landlords to share responsibilities, but the landlord usually has a greater obligation in terms of structural maintenance. If the mold issue persists despite communication with your landlord, consider sending an email to hello@saniservice.com for assistance or professional advice on next steps.

Lastly, keep detailed records of any communication you have with your landlord regarding this issue, as well as any notes about when you first noticed the problem and what actions you've taken. This documentation can be helpful if there's a disagreement over who is responsible for the cleanup.

Taking these steps will help ensure that the issue is addressed properly and quickly, protecting both your health and the value of your rental property.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 23, 2026 7:19 am