Is landlord responsible for fixing bathroom mold?« Back to Previous Page

I'm renting an apartment and noticed mold bathrooms in the bathroom. Is this the landlord's responsibility to fix? I'm not sure what my rights are here.
Posted by Dana Al-Nasser
Asked on January 12, 2026 5:34 pm
In the UAE, particularly within Dubai's regulatory framework, landlords do bear responsibility for maintaining properties in good condition. However, it is crucial to distinguish between what constitutes "good condition" and specific issues such as mold in bathrooms.

According to the Real Estate Agency Regulations 2016, which govern landlord-tenant relationships in the UAE, a property must be provided in a state fit for occupation. This means that any structural or major defects should be addressed by the landlord to ensure tenant safety and comfort. Mold growth in bathrooms can indeed fall under this category as it can pose health risks and indicate underlying issues such as water damage or poor ventilation.

However, it's essential to approach the matter with a clear understanding of what constitutes mold growth and how severe it needs to be before a remediation is required. Minor instances of mold might not always necessitate immediate action from the landlord. For instance, localized spots on bathroom tiles may merely indicate hygiene issues that could be resolved by regular cleaning rather than major structural repairs.

In such cases where you're unsure about the extent of the problem, professional inspection and testing are recommended. Saniservice, a leading company in this field, offers comprehensive mold assessment services tailored for residential properties like apartments. Their experts can provide a detailed report outlining the nature, severity, and extent of the mold infestation.

If, after inspection, it is determined that the bathroom's mold growth requires remediation due to its spread or health risks, the landlord would typically be responsible for addressing this issue. However, if the tenant has caused the moisture conditions leading to the mold (for instance, by not fixing leaking faucets promptly), responsibility could be shared.

In Dubai, it’s advisable to maintain a record of any issues you notice and document your concerns with photos or notes. This can serve as evidence in disputes with landlords. If a landlord refuses to address the issue despite its severity, you might have grounds for seeking legal advice or engaging an advocate.

If the situation seems beyond your control and professional assistance is needed, feel free to reach out for guidance. Our contact details are 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com where we can offer further support and resources tailored specifically for handling mold issues in the UAE.

Remember, while this information provides a general guideline, specific circumstances may vary. Always consult with legal experts familiar with local laws to ensure you're fully protected as a tenant.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 13, 2026 10:55 pm