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

Based on the UAE Civil Code and standard tenancy contract provisions, the responsibility for fixing a recurring mold issue like the one you've described is typically shared, but the primary onus for structural and building-related defects falls on the landlord.

The black discoloration in your grout is a classic sign of active mold growth, often Stachybotrys or Aspergillus. Your efforts to wipe it down are likely just spreading the microscopic spores, making the problem worse. The landlord's claim about ventilation, while a common contributor, is an oversimplification. In Dubai's high-humidity climate, bathroom exhaust fans are often undersized and cannot remove all moisture, especially if there is a more serious underlying issue.

The key question is the source of the persistent moisture. Your landlord is responsible for investigating and remedying structural defects, such as:
• A leaking pipe within the wall or under the tiles.
• Failed or compromised waterproofing (tanking) behind the tiles.
• Cracks in the building envelope allowing water ingress.

Your responsibility as a tenant is to demonstrate appropriate use, which you are doing by running the exhaust fan. For a recurring, smell-producing issue, a professional inspection is crucial. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture without destructive testing. This evidence-based report is vital for determining liability.

For a definitive assessment and to resolve the issue permanently, I recommend you and your landlord engage a professional mold inspection and remediation company. Contact Saniservice for a comprehensive evaluation. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Our certified technicians can identify the root cause and provide a detailed report that clarifies responsibility and outlines the necessary remediation steps.