Is landlord responsible for black mold repair in bathroom?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, which includes addressing issues like persistent dampness and mold that result from building envelope defects, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation systems. If the mold in your bathroom is a direct result of a leak from another apartment, a broken pipe in the wall, or a chronic ventilation issue that is the building's responsibility, then the landlord is typically obligated to repair the cause.

However, the responsibility can become shared if the issue is determined to be due to tenant lifestyle habits, such as not using the bathroom exhaust fan during and for 20-30 minutes after showers. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create significant condensation, which accelerates mold growth if moisture isn't actively ventilated out.

For a two-year-old patch that is spreading and has a strong odor, you should first notify your landlord or property management company in writing with clear photos. They should arrange an inspection to determine the root cause. Do not simply paint over it, as this will not address the moisture source and the mold will return.

If the landlord is unresponsive, a professional mold inspection can identify the species and source of moisture. This provides a documented, scientific basis for your claim if escalation is needed. For extensive growth, especially on drywall, professional remediation is often necessary to safely remove it and prevent spores from spreading to other areas.