Who is responsible for mold behind bathroom cabinet?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a bunch of mold growing behind the bathroom cabinet. My landlord hasn't said anything about it, but I’m unsure if it's within my responsibilities to address this or not. Do tenants in Dubai typically handle issues like this ourselves, or is it usually the landlord’s job?
Posted by Salma Al-Qasim
Asked on January 17, 2026 1:50 am
The responsibility for mold behind the bathroom cabinet in Dubai/UAE can sometimes be a bit murky, but generally speaking, it falls under tenant maintenance unless explicitly stated otherwise. In the UAE, specifically in Dubai, the building codes and regulations are quite stringent when it comes to indoor environmental quality, yet they often leave room for interpretation on minor issues like this one.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that mold growth is a common issue after rain or water damage, especially in bathrooms where humidity levels can be high. The UAE, including Dubai, experiences varying weather conditions, and thus, such occurrences are not uncommon. However, when it comes to addressing the situation, most rental agreements specify who is responsible for repairs and maintenance.

Typically, tenants in Dubai have a responsibility to maintain their living spaces in a clean and habitable condition. This includes taking care of minor issues that arise from regular wear and tear or from occasional events like rain. However, if the mold growth is due to a significant structural issue (like a leaky pipe) or the landlord has been notified about it but hasn't acted upon it, then this might fall under the landlord's maintenance responsibilities.

Given your situation, it would be prudent to conduct an inspection first. Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assessment. This is crucial because without a proper diagnosis, you could inadvertently cause further damage while trying to address the issue yourself. Professional inspectors can also provide advice on whether this is a minor maintenance task that you can handle or if it requires more extensive action.

Moreover, documenting any issues and notifying your landlord of them in writing (email or text) can help protect your rights as a tenant. If the mold growth has been ongoing and there's no sign of improvement despite reasonable attempts to address the issue yourself, then reaching out to the landlord with evidence might be necessary.

Remember, addressing mold is critical not just for aesthetic reasons but also because it can pose health risks, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Ensuring indoor air quality is a key aspect of environmental safety in the UAE and Dubai.

In summary, while tenants are generally responsible for maintaining their living spaces, significant issues like persistent mold growth should be brought to your landlord's attention if not resolved. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice and take action to safeguard both your health and property.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 18, 2026 6:34 am