Is black mold in my rental bathroom my responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Federal Law No. 5 of 1985, the responsibility for structural repairs and fixes related to the building's integrity falls upon the landlord. The black mold growth you've discovered behind the vanity is a direct result of persistent high humidity, a well-documented issue in Dubai due to our climate, and potentially inadequate ventilation or hidden plumbing leaks within the wall. This is not considered routine tenant maintenance.

Your first step is to immediately report this in writing to your landlord or property management company. Document the issue with clear photographs and videos. As a tenant, you are responsible for general cleanliness and using ventilation facilities, which you have done, but the scale of growth you describe indicates a underlying moisture issue that the property owner must address.

Attempting to clean significant black mold growth yourself is strongly discouraged. Disturbing it can aerosolize harmful spores, contaminating other areas of your apartment and posing health risks. Furthermore, without professional-grade equipment and antimicrobial agents, a DIY cleaning will only provide a temporary cosmetic fix; the mold will return if the source of moisture is not identified and rectified.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure the remediation is handled correctly, I recommend a professional inspection. A certified mold inspector can identify the exact species and the full extent of contamination, including within wall cavities, and provide a protocol for your landlord to follow. For expert testing and remediation services in Dubai, you can contact our specialists at Saniservice by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. Presenting your landlord with a professional assessment will strongly support your case for a proper and permanent resolution.