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

Bathroom mold in a rental is typically the landlord's responsibility to fix if it stems from a structural issue, like poor ventilation, a leaking pipe inside the wall, or inadequate waterproofing. However, the tenant is responsible for daily moisture control through proper bathroom use.

In Dubai's climate, with its high humidity and constant AC use, condensation is a primary mold catalyst. The landlord must ensure the exhaust fan is functional and powerful enough to remove steam. If the mold is pervasive and recurring despite your efforts to ventilate, the underlying cause is likely a maintenance issue for the property owner.

For a significant recurring problem, especially with a toddler present, document the issue with photos and formally request a professional inspection from your landlord. A proper assessment can identify if the mold is only surface-level or if there's a hidden moisture source. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), which mandates landlords must maintain the property in a habitable condition.

Given the health concerns for a young child, do not attempt to clean extensive growth yourself, as this can aerosolize spores. A professional remediation service, which the landlord should arrange, will use containment and air scrubbing to safely remove the biofilm and treat the area to prevent rapid regrowth.