Who is responsible for shower mold repair in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for fixing structural issues and defects in the property's original condition, including problems with waterproofing or faulty ventilation systems that lead to persistent mold. The tenant is responsible for damage caused by negligence, like failing to use the bathroom's exhaust fan.

Your situation points to a structural cause. The persistent damp smell and recurring black grout mold, despite cleaning, strongly suggest excess moisture is trapped behind the tiles or in the wall. This is common in JVC apartments where high humidity meets inadequate sealing or ventilation. The landlord should address the root cause, which is likely failed grout or a leak, not just the visible mold.

Document everything immediately. Take clear, dated photos and videos of the mold and the affected area. Send a formal written notification to your landlord or property management company, describing the issue and requesting repair. Do this via email or a registered letter for a paper trail. This proves you reported it promptly and protects your security deposit from unfair deductions for a pre-existing problem.

For a case this advanced, a professional inspection is wise to confirm the moisture source. A lab test can also identify the mold species, which is useful documentation if the landlord disputes responsibility. This provides concrete evidence that the issue is environmental and not due to tenant neglect.