Is landlord responsible for mold behind toilet?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai, the landlord is typically responsible for remedying mold issues caused by underlying building defects or maintenance failures, such as a hidden plumbing leak or inadequate bathroom ventilation. However, if the mold growth is solely due to tenant habits—like not using the exhaust fan during showers—it may be considered the tenant's responsibility to address.

Given your location in Jumeirah Village Triangle and the timing coinciding with increased humidity, this is a common issue. The mold behind the toilet is likely due to condensation from temperature fluctuations and high ambient moisture, exacerbated by Dubai's climate. Since it's a persistent patch that's growing, a professional inspection is recommended to rule out a slow leak from the toilet's seal or supply line, which would be a structural issue for the landlord to fix.

For your toddler's health, it's best to address this promptly. Start by notifying your landlord in writing about the mold, mentioning its proximity to plumbing and its recent growth. They are generally obligated to investigate and rectify any defects that cause it. In the interim, improve ventilation by running the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after showers and wiping down cold surfaces where condensation forms. For a case this specific, a certified mold inspector can identify the moisture source and provide a report, which is useful for discussions with your landlord.