Is bathroom black mold the landlord's responsibility in Dubai« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the responsibility for fixing a bathroom mold issue typically falls on the landlord if it stems from a structural or maintenance defect. This includes problems like a leaking pipe inside the wall, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation in the building's design. As a tenant in an older Deira building, your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, as it is a health and safety concern that is worsening over time.

The persistent humidity and constant use of AC in Dubai create ideal conditions for mold, especially in bathrooms where steam accumulates. The black patch near your shower is likely due to condensation and poor extraction, a very common issue here. Since your allergies are acting up, it is a legitimate health concern that should be addressed promptly.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference the Dubai Rental Law, which mandates that the landlord must maintain the property in a habitable condition. You can escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. However, if the mold growth is determined to be a result of tenant negligence—such as not using the bathroom exhaust fan—you could be held responsible for the remediation costs.

For a patch that has been growing and is affecting your health, a professional inspection is wise to identify the exact moisture source. A surface swab sent to a microbiology lab can confirm the mold type, which provides concrete evidence of the issue's severity for your landlord. In many cases, resolving the underlying moisture problem, improving ventilation, and a proper cleaning protocol are necessary.