Is landlord responsible for shower grout mold in rental?« Back to Previous Page

Landlord responsibility for bathroom mold in Dubai rentals depends on the cause and severity. Under the Dubai Rental Law, landlords must maintain the property’s structural integrity and ensure it is habitable. If the mold results from a pre-existing structural issue—like poor ventilation, a leaking pipe within the wall, or a faulty AC unit causing condensation—then the landlord is typically responsible for the remediation. However, if the mold is due to tenant negligence, such as failing to use the exhaust fan regularly or not wiping down wet surfaces, the tenant is usually responsible for cleaning it.

The black grout in your shower is extremely common here due to the high humidity and is often a maintenance issue for tenants. However, its spread to the ceiling near the AC vent suggests a potential problem beyond simple surface condensation; the AC unit could be a contributing source of moisture or even mold. Since you are using the exhaust fan, this strengthens the case that the cause may be structural.

For a situation like this, document the issue with clear photos and formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing. Request that they investigate the root cause, as a simple surface clean will be ineffective if there’s an underlying leak or ventilation fault. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai. For your own health and to verify the extent, a professional inspection can identify the mold type and moisture source, which provides concrete evidence if a dispute arises.