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

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for fixing mold depends on the cause. The landlord is responsible for repairs related to structural issues, such as a leaking pipe inside the wall or faulty waterproofing that allows moisture ingress. The tenant is typically responsible for damage resulting from daily living, like inadequate ventilation leading to condensation buildup.

Given your description of the mold's location and its correlation with high humidity, this is most often a tenant-responsible ventilation issue. Bathrooms here require consistent use of exhaust fans during and for at least 30 minutes after showers to remove humid air. Year-round AC use also contributes by creating significant temperature differentials that cause condensation on cooler surfaces like ceiling corners.

For a toddler's safety, first clean small patches (under one square meter) with a vinegar or diluted bleach solution, wearing a mask and gloves. Ensure the room is well-ventilated during the process. The critical step is addressing the moisture source. Wipe down wet surfaces after showering and run the exhaust fan religiously.

If the mold returns quickly after cleaning, grows larger, or is inside the AC vent itself, the cause may be a hidden leak. In that case, you must formally notify the landlord in writing to investigate the structure. For health reassurance, a professional inspection can identify the mold species and moisture source, providing documentation if you need to escalate the issue with the property owner.