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

In the UAE, landlord-tenant responsibilities for mold are governed by Law No. 26 of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008. The landlord is responsible for the property's structural integrity and addressing issues arising from inherent building defects, such as faulty waterproofing, leaking internal pipes, or inadequate ventilation systems. If the mold in your windowless bathroom is a result of persistent condensation due to poor extractor fan performance or a lack of natural ventilation, this is likely a maintenance issue for the landlord to rectify.

However, tenant liability comes into play if the mold growth is directly caused by occupant behavior, such as failing to use the provided ventilation fan during and after showers, drying wet towels indoors, or not reporting a minor leak in a timely manner, allowing the problem to escalate. Given Dubai's high humidity levels and the constant use of AC, which can create significant temperature differentials and condensation, proper tenant ventilation is critical.

For a recurring, severe case with a persistent musty odor, a professional inspection is essential. This will determine the root cause—whether it's a structural defect or an environmental humidity issue—which dictates responsibility. We at Saniservice provide certified mold inspections and testing to identify the species and source, followed by expert remediation to ensure it is removed safely and effectively, not just cleaned cosmetically. For an accurate assessment and to resolve the issue definitively, call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.