Is bathroom mold my responsibility as a tenant?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's climate, with its high ambient humidity and reliance on year-round air conditioning, bathroom mold is an extremely common issue. The core of the responsibility question hinges on the source of the moisture. As a certified mold inspector in the UAE, I can provide clarity.

If the mold is purely due to condensation from showering (surface moisture), the tenant is typically responsible for the cleaning and maintenance to prevent it. Simply running an exhaust fan may not be sufficient; it must be verified that the fan is actually extracting air properly and that you run it for at least 20-30 minutes after showering. However, your description of the mold spreading at the shower-ceiling junction is a significant red flag. This location is a classic indicator of a potential leak from a pipe in the ceiling void or from the apartment above, which is a structural issue.

Under standard Dubai rental contracts (Law No. 26 of 2007), structural defects and maintenance of the building's core systems (like plumbing) are the unequivocal responsibility of the landlord. You should formally notify your landlord and building management in writing, with photos, and insist they investigate the source. Do not attempt to simply paint over it, as this will not address a hidden leak.

Given the potential for concealed water damage and the health implications of certain mold types, a professional inspection is critical. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of moisture, which determines liability. For an accurate assessment and definitive report to present to your landlord, I strongly recommend contacting our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.