Landlord responsible for bathroom mold fix in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The black growth in your grout is likely Stachybotrys or Aspergillus mold, which thrives in the chronic dampness and high humidity of Dubai bathrooms. Weekly bleach wiping only removes surface discoloration; it does not address the moisture source or the fungal roots embedded deep in the porous grout.

Under Dubai's rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is responsible for fixing the underlying cause of the mold if it stems from a structural or maintenance defect. This includes faulty bathroom ventilation, leaking pipes inside the walls, inadequate waterproofing, or a broken exhaust fan. You are typically responsible for general cleaning and maintenance due to daily use, like wiping down surfaces after a shower.

Your first step is to formally notify the landlord or property management company in writing about the persistent issue, detailing that surface cleaning is ineffective. Specifically state that you suspect a hidden defect, such as a ventilation problem or concealed leak, is causing the dampness. They are obligated to investigate and rectify such defects. If the landlord refuses, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.

Given the strong smell and rapid recurrence, a professional inspection is advisable to identify the exact moisture source. This is critical, as the problem may be behind the tiles. In many JVC apartments, bathrooms lack sufficient ventilation to handle the climate's humidity, leading to condensation that soaks into walls. A proper fix might involve repairing a leak, improving ventilation, and then professionally remediating the mold and resealing or replacing the grout to prevent it from returning.