Is landlord responsible for bathroom mold repair cost?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that's been growing in the corner of our master bathroom for the last couple of months, right where the shower wall meets the ceiling. We're in an older building in Jumeirah, and we've been here for three years without any issues until now. I've tried cleaning it with bleach but it just keeps coming back worse, especially since the weather got more humid. Who is actually responsible for getting this properly fixed and the cost, me as the tenant or my landlord, and what's the best way to approach them about it?
Posted by Ibrahim Al-Hamdi
Asked on April 16, 2026 5:40 am
Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is typically responsible for structural repairs and issues related to the building's integrity. This includes problems like persistent water leaks within the walls or a faulty ventilation system that causes condensation. Your responsibility as a tenant is generally for minor maintenance and keeping the property clean.

In your case, the mold's location at the wall-ceiling junction and its recurrence after cleaning suggests a potential underlying issue. The persistent high humidity in Dubai, especially in older buildings, often points to inadequate bathroom ventilation. If the extractor fan is broken or underpowered, it creates the damp conditions mold needs to thrive. This is likely a landlord responsibility to fix.

Approach your landlord by presenting the facts calmly. Explain that you've attempted to clean it multiple times, but it returns due to what appears to be a ventilation or moisture issue. Mention the health symptoms your family is experiencing, as this underscores the urgency. It is reasonable to request they address the root cause, which may involve repairing or upgrading the bathroom's extractor fan and properly remediating the existing mold growth. For severe, recurring cases like this, a professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source, providing a clear report to share with the landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 17, 2026 11:46 pm