Who is responsible for black mold in my Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The responsibility for black mold in a Dubai apartment, particularly in a bathroom, is typically determined by the source of the moisture. Under UAE tenancy law, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property. If the mold is a result of a hidden plumbing leak, faulty waterproofing, or a construction defect that allows water ingress from outside, the repair and remediation cost falls to the landlord.

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining adequate ventilation to control the high ambient humidity levels common in Dubai. If the mold growth is solely due to condensation from showering without using the exhaust fan or failing to wipe down wet surfaces, the cleaning responsibility is yours. The extreme humidity, combined with year-round AC use which can create significant temperature differentials, makes bathrooms prime locations for condensation-related mold.

Given your description of the mold spreading along the shower base, the cause could be either a leak from the shower trap or pipework (landlord responsibility) or severe surface condensation (tenant responsibility). We strongly advise against attempting to clean significant growth yourself, as improper remediation can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination.

For a definitive answer, a professional inspection is required. Our certified mold inspectors at Saniservice use moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and borescopes to identify the exact moisture source. This evidence-based report is crucial for determining liability. We can then provide a certified remediation quote for either you or your landlord to address the issue safely and permanently. For an immediate assessment, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.