Who is responsible for recurring bathroom mold in a rental?« Back to Previous Page
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We've lived in this Marina apartment for about a year, and the corner behind our toilet has had a persistent black mold problem for the last few months. We try to keep it ventilated, but the bathroom has no window and the exhaust fan is weak. Our landlord is saying it's our fault for not cleaning properly, but it seems to be growing from inside the grout. Who is actually responsible for fixing this kind of recurring mold issue in a rental?
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Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and subsequent regulations, the responsibility for fixing a recurring mold issue like the one you describe is typically determined by the source of the problem.
Your situation, where the mold appears to be growing from inside the grout and is persistent despite ventilation efforts, strongly suggests a structural or maintenance-related cause. This is a common issue in Dubai due to our extreme humidity and the year-round reliance on air conditioning, which can lead to significant condensation within walls. The weak exhaust fan you mentioned is a critical factor; it is the landlord's responsibility to ensure that all fixed installations, including ventilation systems, are in good working order to prevent habitability issues. If the mold is a result of inadequate ventilation (a faulty fan), hidden water leaks from plumbing within the walls, or insufficient waterproofing/sealing, the remediation and repair fall under the landlord's obligation to maintain the property's structural integrity. A simple surface cleaning, which the landlord may be accusing you of neglecting, is insufficient for a recurring problem rooted in the building's infrastructure. For a definitive determination of responsibility, a professional inspection is essential. Our certified mold inspectors at Saniservice use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the precise moisture source—whether it's internal condensation, a plumbing leak, or penetrating dampness. This detailed report, which we can provide, serves as crucial evidence to formally request repairs from your landlord. For immediate assistance and to schedule a definitive inspection to resolve the dispute, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
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