Is black mold in shower the tenant's or landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

In Dubai's rental market, responsibility depends on the cause. Landlords are generally responsible for fixing structural issues, like faulty waterproofing or leaking pipes that cause moisture behind tiles. Tenants are responsible for damage caused by negligence, such as failing to ventilate a bathroom properly.

Given your apartment's lack of a window, inadequate ventilation is a primary cause. The extreme humidity and constant use of AC in Dubai creates significant condensation, which feeds mould growth on grout. This is often considered a maintenance issue. Your first step is to notify the landlord or building management in writing about the recurring problem, as this documents your diligence.

For a persistent black discolouration that returns despite cleaning, a professional inspection is wise to determine if the moisture source is superficial condensation or a hidden leak. If the mould is superficial, you may be expected to clean it, but the landlord should address the root ventilation deficiency, perhaps by installing an extractor fan if one is missing. If the inspection finds moisture within the wall or failed sealant, that repair falls to the landlord.