Who is responsible for bathroom mold, tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the specifics of your situation in Al Barsha, this is a complex issue with shared responsibilities that is unfortunately common in Dubai due to our high humidity levels and condensation issues from year-round AC use.

The black spots you describe, which recur after cleaning, are almost certainly active mold growth. While tenant behavior, such as consistent use of the exhaust fan during and after showers to reduce moisture, is a factor, the persistent and spreading nature suggests a more serious underlying problem. A simple surface cleaning is insufficient and can agitate spores, making the problem worse.

Legally, the responsibility for repairs and remedying the cause of the mold typically falls on the landlord, as per standard tenancy agreements in Dubai that mandate the landlord must maintain the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural issues like a potential leak from the apartment above or faulty waterproofing and plumbing. If the mold is a result of a building defect, it is unequivocally the landlord's responsibility to investigate and rectify it.

However, the tenant is responsible for demonstrating due diligence in ventilation. Your landlord's argument holds weight if the exhaust fan is never used. To resolve this, a professional inspection is critical to determine the root cause. This inspection will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to differentiate between a condensation issue and a concealed leak.

I strongly recommend you insist on a professional mold inspection. Our company, Saniservice, specializes in this exact diagnostic process. We provide a detailed report that can be presented to your landlord, clearly outlining the cause and the required remediation steps, which is essential for resolving liability disputes. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.