Landlord responsible for shower mold and damp smell?« Back to Previous Page

Bathroom mold in Dubai is primarily a maintenance issue, making it the tenant's responsibility in most cases. Your tenancy contract likely states you must keep the property in good condition, which includes regular cleaning to prevent mold buildup from daily humidity.

However, the underlying cause of your persistent problem—the weak ventilation fan and constant humidity—could be the landlord's responsibility. Dubai's building codes and the Dubai Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007) imply a landlord must provide a habitable property with functioning essential systems, which includes adequate ventilation. A weak fan that cannot expel moist air violates this, creating a chronic dampness issue. You should formally notify your landlord in writing about the faulty fan and request its repair or replacement. This addresses the source of the moisture, not just the symptom.

For the existing mold, small surface mold on grout can often be managed with regular cleaning using a vinegar solution or a dedicated grout cleaner. However, given the persistent damp smell, the mold may have spread behind tiles or under sealant. A professional inspection can determine if remediation is needed to prevent structural damage or health impacts from airborne spores.

To manage humidity immediately, run the existing fan during and for 30 minutes after every shower, keep the bathroom door closed to contain moisture, and regularly wipe down wet surfaces. A small dehumidifier can also help measurably reduce the damp smell.