Who is responsible for black mold removal in rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold in bathroom ceilings is extremely common in Dubai apartments, especially in JVC where humidity and constant AC use create significant condensation. The responsibility for removal depends on the source of the moisture.

Under standard Dubai rental contracts (EJARI), the landlord is responsible for repairs related to the building's structure and maintenance of permanent fixtures, including the plumbing and ventilation systems. If the mold is caused by a leak from an upstairs apartment, faulty plumbing within the walls, or inadequate bathroom ventilation that is part of the building's original design, the landlord must address it. You should notify them in writing immediately.

However, if the moisture is solely due to tenant lifestyle (like insufficient use of the exhaust fan during showers) and there is no underlying structural issue, the cost of cleaning may fall to you. The first step is a professional inspection to identify the moisture source. This is critical, as simply wiping the visible mold away will not stop it from returning if the root cause isn't fixed.

For any significant growth, especially black mold that has appeared since the humidity rose, a professional assessment is advised to determine the species and the best remediation method. They can also provide documentation for your landlord if the issue is structural. In the interim, improve ventilation by running the exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and regularly wiping down wet surfaces.