Is landlord responsible for mold under bathroom floor??« Back to Previous Page

Mold under bathroom flooring is a serious issue in Dubai's climate and requires immediate attention. The high humidity and lack of ventilation in windowless bathrooms create a perfect environment for mold to thrive, often hidden from view until it becomes extensive.

Legally, your landlord is typically responsible for addressing this. Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Article 17 of Law No. 26 of 2007, landlords are obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition and carry out major maintenance repairs. Structural water leaks and the resulting mold infestation that compromises the property's integrity fall under this category. You should formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) with clear photos of the mold and request immediate remediation. They are responsible for fixing the source of the moisture—likely a leaking pipe or failed waterproofing—and the resulting damage.

Given the extent you've described, a professional inspection is strongly advised. The mold under the vinyl is just the visible part; the subfloor and underlying structures may be extensively affected. In Bur Dubai's older buildings, this is common. A proper assessment will identify the exact moisture source and the full scope of contamination, which is critical for a successful, permanent repair. Remediation often involves removing the affected flooring, treating the subfloor, and ensuring the leak is fixed before any rebuilding. Simply cleaning the surface will not solve the underlying problem and it will return. For a case this severe, seeking a provider who can document the issue with lab-based identification and post-remediation verification is your best course of action to ensure your landlord completes a thorough fix.