Who is responsible for mold repair in a rented apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's rental market, responsibility for mold repair depends on the source of the moisture. Under the Dubai Rental Law, landlords are responsible for fixing structural defects, such as leaks in the plumbing, walls, or roof that cause the dampness. Tenants are typically responsible for issues stemming from daily use, like inadequate ventilation leading to condensation.

Given the high humidity and year-round AC use, bathrooms are prime locations for mold growth from condensation. Since your mold is on grout and the ceiling, it's most likely due to steam from showers not being properly vented. This is often considered a maintenance issue for the tenant.

First, notify your landlord or property manager in writing about the issue immediately. They should arrange an inspection to determine if there's a hidden leak (their responsibility) or if it's purely condensation (likely yours). For the fuzzy ceiling patch, a professional inspection is recommended to identify the species, as some types can indicate a more serious moisture problem.

To manage it yourself, increase ventilation by running the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after showering and regularly wipe down wet surfaces. For existing growth on non-porous surfaces like tiles, a solution of white vinegar can help reduce it. However, if the mold has deeply penetrated porous materials like drywall or ceiling boards, replacement by a professional is usually necessary, and you should negotiate responsibility for that cost with your landlord based on the moisture source.