Who is responsible for mold in a rented Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's rental properties, the responsibility for mold remediation is primarily dictated by the tenancy contract and the nature of the issue. Under standard RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) guidelines, structural defects and issues inherent to the property itself are the landlord's responsibility. This includes inadequate or faulty ventilation systems, water leaks from plumbing within the walls, and poor waterproofing or construction defects that allow moisture ingress.

Conversely, if the mold growth is a direct result of tenant negligence—such as failing to use the bathroom's exhaust fan during and after showers, not reporting a minor leak that then escalates, or poor general cleaning habits—the responsibility for remediation may fall to the tenant.

However, your situation with recurring growth despite cleaning attempts indicates a more systemic problem. The persistent black discoloration in the grout is often Aspergillus niger, and fuzzy green ceiling growth is likely Penicillium or Cladosporium. Their recurrence after bleach treatment is a critical red flag. Bleach is a superficial biocide that does not address the underlying moisture source or penetrate porous materials like grout and drywall; it can even aggravate the problem by adding moisture. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold when condensation is not properly managed. This suggests a failure of the property's ventilation system, a structural issue that is the landlord's legal obligation to rectify.

We strongly advise you to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and your unsuccessful remediation attempts. For a definitive assessment of the moisture source and extent of contamination, a professional inspection is essential. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify hidden leaks and condensation points, providing a legally defensible report. For immediate consultation, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.