Who is responsible for fixing black shower grout?« Back to Previous Page

Responsibility typically falls on the landlord if the issue is due to a structural defect like faulty waterproofing, poor ventilation, or a leak. As a tenant, you are generally responsible for routine cleaning and maintenance to prevent buildup.

In Dubai's humid climate, this black mould on grout is extremely common and is often a surface issue caused by daily condensation and inadequate bathroom ventilation. Start by confirming your bathroom's extractor fan is working and run it for 30 minutes after each shower. For surface mould, a strict cleaning routine using a dedicated grout brush and mould-removing cleaner can be effective. Scrub thoroughly and ensure the area dries completely.

If the mould reappears aggressively within weeks despite proper cleaning and ventilation, the root cause is likely deeper. Persistent dampness behind the tiles or failing grout that allows water intrusion points to a maintenance obligation for the property owner. For a definitive assessment of responsibility, a professional inspection can identify if the mould is superficial or indicative of a hidden leak or ventilation system failure, which would require landlord intervention. Document the issue and your cleaning attempts before contacting the building management or landlord.