Is bathroom mold my or my landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page
|
My bathroom ceiling in my Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has had this black speckled mold growing in the corner for the last few months, and it’s getting worse. I wipe it away, but it just comes back, and the damp smell is constant. I’m worried it’s the bad bathroom exhaust fan that’s never worked properly. Am I responsible for fixing the fan and cleaning this, or is this something I need to get my landlord to handle?
|
|
In Dubai's climate, with its high ambient humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning, bathroom mold is an extremely common yet serious issue. The condensation from showers, combined with a malfunctioning exhaust fan, creates the perfect environment for mold proliferation, exactly as you've described.
Regarding responsibility, UAE tenancy law, specifically Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), typically places the responsibility for major structural and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) maintenance on the landlord. A faulty exhaust fan is considered a critical building system whose failure directly leads to property damage (the mold growth) and an unhealthy living environment. Therefore, the repair or replacement of the exhaust fan is unequivocally the landlord's obligation. You, as the tenant, are responsible for general upkeep and cleanliness, but the recurrent mold is a symptom of a systemic failure beyond simple cleaning. However, you must formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing of the defect, giving them a reasonable timeframe to address it. Merely wiping the mold is a temporary and ineffective solution; the hidden moisture within the ceiling materials and the airborne spores require professional remediation. Given the persistent growth and damp smell, this indicates an established colony. I strongly recommend a professional inspection to assess the extent of the contamination, identify any hidden moisture sources, and provide a formal report for your landlord. For a definitive assessment and a certified remediation plan to ensure the mold is removed safely and completely, contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: