Who pays for black mold removal in a rental apartment?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly in humid climates like Dubai, black mold in bathroom grout is a common issue due to high humidity levels, year-round AC usage creating temperature differentials, and often inadequate ventilation. The responsibility for removal and the associated costs depend on the root cause.

According to Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services. This includes addressing issues with inherent building defects, such as a faulty or non-existent bathroom exhaust ventilation system. If the mold growth is a direct result of poor ventilation—a common issue in older Deira buildings—the landlord is typically obligated to rectify the problem and cover the cost of remediation.

However, as a tenant, you are responsible for general upkeep and cleanliness. If the mold is solely due to a lack of regular cleaning and allowing moisture to accumulate (e.g., not wiping down wet surfaces after showers), the cost of a deep clean may fall to you.

Given the progressive nature you've described, this strongly suggests an underlying ventilation issue. We highly recommend you first formally notify your landlord in writing about the problem. For a definitive assessment of the cause, a professional indoor environmental quality inspection is crucial. Our experts at Saniservice can conduct a thorough assessment to determine the source of the moisture, whether it's a maintenance or structural issue, and provide a detailed report. This report is invaluable for discussing responsibility with your landlord.

For a health and safety issue of this nature, professional hygienization is strongly advised to ensure the mold is removed safely and effectively to prevent recurrence. Contact us for a professional evaluation and solution: call 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com.