Is my landlord responsible for shower mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The landlord is responsible for fixing the root cause of the mold, but you are typically responsible for the cleaning and maintenance that prevents it. This is a very common issue in Dubai due to the high humidity and condensation from temperature shifts between the hot outdoors and air-conditioned interiors.

Under Dubai rental law (RERA), the landlord must ensure the property is habitable and address structural or maintenance defects that cause persistent dampness. This includes fixing leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing in the shower, or inadequate ventilation systems. If the mold is a result of such a defect, they are obligated to repair it.

However, if the mold is due to condensation from daily shower use without proper ventilation, this is generally considered tenant maintenance. The first step is to thoroughly clean the existing mold with a dedicated grout cleaner and ensure you run the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower. For a toddler's allergies, it's wise to address this promptly as mold can aggravate symptoms.

If the mold rapidly returns after a thorough cleaning, the issue is likely a leak or seepage. At that point, you should formally notify your landlord in writing, as the underlying cause is their responsibility to fix. For extensive or recurring growth, a professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source, which provides concrete evidence if you need to escalate the issue with your landlord.