Is black mold in wardrobe landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Black mould in wardrobes is typically the tenant's responsibility to clean and maintain, but the underlying cause is often the landlord's duty to repair. In Dubai's humid climate, this is a common issue, especially in areas like JVC where construction and ventilation vary. The black spots are likely Cladosporium or Aspergillus, moulds that thrive on dust and cellulose-based materials (like wood or cardboard) when relative humidity exceeds 60% for sustained periods.

Your tenancy contract is the primary guide. Most standard contracts place routine cleaning and minor maintenance on the tenant. However, if the mould growth is due to a structural issue—such as a hidden water leak from plumbing in the wall, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate insulation causing condensation—that is the landlord's responsibility to fix. The recent humidity spike acts as an amplifier, revealing these existing weaknesses.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing, with photos. This documents the issue. They should assess for leaks or inadequate AC ventilation leading to the wardrobe, as fixing the moisture source is critical. Simply cleaning the visible mould is a temporary solution if the root cause remains.

For minor surface mould on non-porous surfaces, a solution of white vinegar or diluted bleach can be effective for cleaning. For porous materials like wood or extensive growth, professional cleaning is advised to prevent spores from spreading. Since this is a built-in feature affecting the apartment's condition, a cooperative approach with the landlord is best. If they are unresponsive, Dubai's Rental Dispute Center (RDC) is the final arbiter for such maintenance disagreements.