Who is responsible for mold in a rental shower?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, the responsibility hinges on the root cause. Landlords are responsible for the structural integrity of the property, including waterproofing and the building envelope. If the mold is a direct result of a maintenance issue like cracked grout or tiles, leaking pipes behind the wall, or faulty waterproofing, the remediation and repair obligation falls on the landlord.

Tenants are responsible for damage caused by their own negligence or lack of routine maintenance. This typically means ensuring the bathroom is properly ventilated during and after showers to remove the humid air that mold thrives on. The recent increase in humidity is a major factor, as Dubai's climate creates a perfect environment for mold in poorly ventilated spaces.

Your case is a common grey area. The cracked grout is a structural defect that allows moisture to seep into the wall cavity, but the high humidity accelerates the growth. Document everything with clear photos showing the crack and the mold. Send a formal written notification to your landlord, referencing the defect. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. They will assess whether the root cause is a structural failure or tenant habit. For extensive mold, a professional inspection can definitively identify the moisture source, which is powerful evidence for the RDC.