Who is responsible for bathroom mold repair in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for two years and just noticed a patch of black mold growing in the corner where the shower meets the ceiling. It's gotten worse since the recent humidity spike. I'm not sure if this is something I should handle myself with a cleaner or if this is my landlord's responsibility to fix properly, especially since it's on the ceiling. Who is legally responsible for fixing mold in a rental bathroom here in Dubai?
Posted by Willem Sanchez
Asked on May 23, 2026 6:38 am
Bathroom mold repair responsibility in Dubai rentals depends on the cause. Under RERA's tenancy laws, landlords must maintain the property's structure, including fixing leaks in pipes, roofs, or external walls that cause dampness. Tenants are responsible for damage resulting from their own negligence or lack of routine maintenance, such as failing to ventilate the bathroom properly.

For the mold in your JVC apartment, the key is identifying the source. The recent humidity spike is a major factor, but a pre-existing issue like a hidden leak from an upstairs unit or within the wall could be the root cause. Since it's on the ceiling, document it thoroughly with photos and a dated report. Notify your landlord or property management company in writing immediately. They are typically obligated to investigate and repair any structural or maintenance issues originating from their side.

For a patch that has appeared and grown, start by improving ventilation: run the exhaust fan for 30 minutes after every shower and wipe down wet surfaces. If the growth is extensive, recurring after cleaning, or you suspect a leak, a professional inspection is advised to identify the moisture source definitively. This provides concrete evidence for your landlord if a repair is needed. In many cases, resolving the underlying humidity or leak is necessary, as simply cleaning the visible mold will not prevent its return.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 25, 2026 3:51 pm