Who is responsible for black mold in my rental shower?« Back to Previous Page

Black mould in your rental shower is typically the landlord's responsibility to fix, as it's considered a maintenance issue affecting the habitability of the property. Under UAE tenancy law, landlords are obligated to maintain the property's structure, including issues arising from faulty ventilation, leaks, or inadequate waterproofing that cause persistent dampness.

However, your responsibility as a tenant is proper daily ventilation. Simply running the exhaust fan may not be sufficient in Dubai's high humidity. You should also wipe down wet surfaces after showers and ensure the fan is actually extracting moisture effectively—many are underpowered.

The black growth spreading to the ceiling suggests a significant humidity issue, likely beyond simple surface cleaning. This warrants a professional inspection to determine the root cause, such as a ventilation fault or a hidden leak behind the tiles. For a rented apartment, your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos. They should arrange for proper remediation, which isn't just cleaning but addressing the moisture source. If they are unresponsive, you can reference Dubai's Rental Dispute Center.