Am I or landlord responsible for bathroom mold remediation?« Back to Previous Page

The grout between the tiles in our Marina apartment's master bathroom has been turning black for the last couple of months, and now there’s a patch of fuzzy mold growing on the ceiling above the shower. We run the exhaust fan, but the humidity here is just relentless. As a tenant, am I responsible for cleaning this myself, or is the landlord supposed to handle the remediation since it's a growing issue?
Posted by Amanda Wright
Asked on April 8, 2026 1:00 pm
Bathroom mold remediation responsibility in Dubai typically falls on the landlord, as it's considered a maintenance issue related to the property's condition, especially if the exhaust fan is inadequate for the space. The persistent high humidity in Marina accelerates this problem, making simple cleaning often ineffective. As a tenant, your responsibility is generally to report the issue in writing to the landlord or property management company promptly.

For a growing patch on the ceiling and black grout, this indicates an active moisture issue beyond surface condensation. A professional inspection can determine if the exhaust fan is underpowered or if there's a hidden leak, which the landlord should address. Document the issue with photos and your communication. For your health, avoid disturbing the fuzzy mold, as it can release spores.

While you can clean small surface spots with appropriate cleaners, remediation for a recurring issue should be handled professionally to prevent regrowth, a cost typically borne by the property owner. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference Dubai's rental laws concerning the landlord's obligation to maintain a habitable property.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 1:47 am