Is black mold behind toilet landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Marina apartment for two years and just noticed a patch of black mold growing behind the toilet where it meets the wall. The musty smell has been there for a while, but it's definitely gotten worse since the humidity kicked in a couple of months ago. We always use the exhaust fan, but it doesn't seem to be enough. As a tenant, am I responsible for cleaning this myself, or is this something I need to report to the landlord for them to fix properly?
Posted by Michael Garcia
Asked on April 15, 2026 11:55 am
Yes, this is typically the landlord's responsibility under Dubai rental law. The black mold behind your toilet indicates a persistent moisture issue, likely from a small leak in the toilet's seal or from condensation, which the landlord is obligated to fix.

The musty smell worsening with humidity is a classic sign in Dubai. Bathroom exhaust fans often can't handle the high ambient moisture levels alone, especially if there's an underlying leak. You should report this in writing to your landlord or property management company immediately. Provide clear photos of the mold and describe the musty odor.

For a small patch, cleaning with a vinegar solution can help manage it temporarily. However, since the mold is behind the fixture and the smell is persistent, the root cause needs to be addressed. The landlord should send a plumber to inspect and repair any leak and a professional cleaner to properly remediate the mold to prevent it from returning. If the problem is extensive or you are concerned about the type of mold, a professional inspection can identify the species and the full extent of the issue.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 17, 2026 3:28 am