Who is responsible for black mold in bathroom grout?« Back to Previous Page

Based on Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for black mold in bathroom grout hinges on the underlying cause, which requires professional diagnosis.

Landlord Responsibility: If the mold growth is due to a structural or maintenance issue, such as a hidden water leak from plumbing pipes within the walls, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation systems, the landlord is legally obligated to address and rectify the cause. These are considered issues pertaining to the fundamental structure of the property.

Tenant Responsibility: As a tenant, you are responsible for general upkeep and maintenance. This includes regularly cleaning surfaces to prevent mold buildup caused by daily activities like showering. The persistent high humidity and constant use of air conditioning in Dubai create significant condensation, which, without proper after-shower ventilation, accelerates mold growth on surfaces like grout. Using squeegees on walls and running the exhaust fan for 30 minutes post-shower are essential tenant duties.

However, the pattern you describe—localized behind the toilet and worsening with humidity—strongly suggests a potential underlying issue beyond surface condensation. This warrants a professional inspection to determine the root cause. Our certified mold inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to differentiate between surface humidity and concealed leaks, a critical distinction for determining liability.

For an accurate assessment and to ensure the correct party addresses the problem, we recommend a professional evaluation. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection with Saniservice.