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

This is an excellent and very common question for Dubai residents. The high humidity here, especially in windowless bathrooms, creates a perpetual battle against mold.

In the UAE, a landlord's responsibility for maintenance is typically outlined in Law No. (26) of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law. The law generally places the responsibility for "maintenance of the property and its core facilities" on the landlord. This includes the structural integrity of the building, plumbing, electrical systems, and air conditioning. A chronic mold issue often stems from a hidden underlying problem that falls under this category, such as a leaking pipe within the wall, faulty waterproofing behind the tiles, or an inadequate or blocked exhaust ventilation system that doesn't meet building codes.

However, the tenant is responsible for day-to-day upkeep and damage caused by negligence. If the mold is solely due to a tenant not using the provided exhaust fan during and after showers, the liability could shift.

Your case – black grout and fuzzy growth behind the toilet – strongly suggests a persistent moisture issue beyond simple surface condensation. The fuzzy mold is a clear sign of an active colony. This is not normal wear and tear; it's a symptom of a potential building envelope or ventilation failure.

My professional recommendation is to first notify your landlord in writing immediately, detailing the issue and including photos. Request that they address the root cause. For a case like this, a professional inspection is crucial. We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture hidden behind walls or under tiles. Without fixing the source, simply cleaning or retiling will be a temporary fix.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you may need to escalate to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC). For a definitive assessment and report you can present to your landlord, please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an inspection.