Who is responsible for bathroom mold in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for mold remediation in a rental property is typically determined by the cause of the moisture.

The landlord is legally responsible for fixing the underlying defect that is causing the mold growth. In your case at Jumeirah Village Circle, the black grout and persistent damp smell strongly indicate a persistent moisture issue that goes beyond surface condensation from showering. Given that you are using the exhaust fan, the root cause is likely a more serious defect, such as a hidden plumbing leak within the wall, failing waterproofing behind the tiles, or an inadequate or blocked ventilation system. These are all structural issues that fall under the landlord's obligation to maintain the property in a habitable condition.

However, the tenant is responsible for general maintenance and ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent moisture accumulation, which you are doing by running the fan. The extreme humidity of Dubai's climate, combined with year-round AC use that can create significant temperature differentials, exacerbates any existing moisture problem but is not the primary cause if a fundamental defect exists.

For a definitive answer and to protect your interests, a professional inspection is crucial. Our certified mold assessors can conduct a comprehensive investigation using moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify the exact source of the moisture. This detailed technical report will definitively establish liability between tenant habitability and landlord structural responsibility. We highly recommend you seek this professional assessment to resolve the dispute with your landlord.

For immediate assistance with inspection and testing, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.