Is my landlord in Abu Dhabi responsible for bathroom mold?« Back to Previous Page

Under Abu Dhabi tenancy law, your landlord is generally responsible for addressing structural issues that cause mold, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation. However, if the mold growth is determined to be a result of tenant behavior—like failing to use the exhaust fan during showers—the responsibility for remediation may shift to you.

Given the description of blackened grout and spread to the ceiling, this appears to be a significant moisture issue. The high humidity in the UAE, combined with condensation from air conditioning and hot showers, creates a persistent environment for mold. This is not a simple surface cleaning task.

You should first formally notify your landlord in writing about the issue, as it is impacting your family's health. Request that they investigate and repair the underlying cause. For a case this advanced, a professional inspection is highly recommended to identify the moisture source and the mold species. A lab test can confirm if it is a type known to cause respiratory irritation, which is common with prolonged exposure.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Abu Dhabi Municipal Center or the Rental Dispute Settlement Committee. They can mandate an inspection to determine liability. In the interim, improve ventilation by running the bathroom fan for 30 minutes after showering and wiping down wet surfaces.