Is landlord responsible for bathroom mold in rental?« Back to Previous Page

We've been in our Jumeirah apartment for a year now and just noticed black mold spreading along the ceiling above the shower. The smell is pretty strong, especially after a hot shower. I’ve been wiping it down with bleach but it keeps coming back worse. Is this something I should fix myself, or is my landlord responsible for getting a professional to handle it?
Posted by Krzysztof Kowalski
Asked on March 26, 2026 9:23 am
In the UAE, particularly in humid climates like Dubai, bathroom mold is a common issue due to high ambient humidity and condensation from air conditioning systems. The responsibility for rectifying this problem in a rental property is typically governed by your tenancy contract and Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, known as the 'Regulating Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai Law'.

Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property and addressing issues related to inherent building defects or faulty infrastructure, such as inadequate ventilation systems, leaking pipes within the walls, or poor waterproofing that leads to persistent dampness. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property's cleanliness and reporting any issues promptly.

The fact that you have been consistently wiping the mold with bleach and it returns worse is a critical indicator. Bleach is a superficial treatment that does not address the underlying moisture source and can often aggravate the problem by adding moisture. The strong musty odor confirms active microbial growth, likely extending beyond the visible surface into the ceiling matrix.

This situation necessitates a professional inspection. A certified mold assessor can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species (some, like Stachybotrys chartarum, are particularly concerning) and determine the root cause—whether it's a construction defect, a ventilation issue, or a maintenance-related problem. This report is vital for formally engaging your landlord, as it provides documented, professional evidence of the issue's severity and origin.

For a definitive assessment and to understand your rights and responsibilities, I strongly recommend you contact our team. We can provide a comprehensive inspection and a detailed report for your landlord.

Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection with Saniservice.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 5:59 pm