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

Based on the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) and the stipulations of the standard tenancy contract, the responsibility for addressing the mold issue in your bathroom is typically determined by the cause of the dampness.

The landlord is legally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. This includes ensuring the apartment is habitable and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects. If the persistent dampness is due to a leaking pipe within the walls, faulty waterproofing, inadequate ventilation systems, or a structural issue allowing water ingress, the remediation cost falls squarely on the property owner. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company immediately, as they are obligated to investigate and rectify these fundamental faults.

However, tenant responsibilities include maintaining the property in a clean and hygienic condition. If the dampness is solely a result of lifestyle factors—such as not using the exhaust fan during and after showers, allowing wet towels to accumulate, or failing to wipe down wet surfaces—then the resulting mold growth and any damage to surfaces like grout would be the tenant's responsibility to clean and address.

Given the climate in JVC and Dubai at large, with its high humidity and constant AC use leading to significant condensation, the root cause can be complex. The persistent musty odor and pattern of growth you describe, especially in concealed areas, strongly suggest an underlying moisture issue beyond surface condensation. We highly recommend a professional inspection to identify the exact source of moisture. Our certified experts at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the cause and provide a definitive report for your landlord. This is crucial for resolving the problem effectively and permanently. For immediate advice or to book an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.