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

In the UAE, particularly in high-humidity coastal areas like Dubai, the responsibility for mold remediation often depends on the root cause. Under the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), a landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property and is responsible for addressing structural or maintenance-related defects that lead to issues like persistent mold. If the black mold in your shower is recurring despite regular cleaning, it is highly likely due to an underlying problem, such as faulty bathroom ventilation, leaking pipes within the walls, or inadequate waterproofing and grout sealing. These are considered maintenance issues that fall under the landlord's purview.

However, the rapid recurrence you describe is a classic symptom of Dubai's climate. Year-round AC use creates significant condensation, and bathrooms without properly functioning exhaust fans become incubators for mold. The mycotoxins from species like Stachybotrys (black mold) are known respiratory irritants, especially for children.

Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue and your health concerns, requesting a professional inspection. Simply wiping the surface does not address the hyphae roots growing within the grout or the potential hidden moisture source. For a definitive assessment and to establish liability, I recommend a certified mold inspection. Our team at Saniservice uses thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the exact moisture source and air sampling to determine spore count and species, which is crucial for your family's health and any discussions with your landlord.

For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.