Am I or my landlord responsible for shower mold?« Back to Previous Page

The grout between the tiles in my master bathroom shower has turned completely black with mold, and it's been slowly getting worse over the last couple of months. I live in a rented apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle, and the bathroom doesn't have a window. I wipe the walls down after every shower, but the humidity just doesn't go away. Am I responsible for cleaning this myself, or is this something my landlord needs to fix, especially since it seems like a ventilation issue?
Posted by Juergen Visser
Asked on April 5, 2026 7:40 pm
Based on UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the responsibility for mold remediation depends on the root cause. As a tenant, you are responsible for general cleaning and maintenance. However, if the mold is a direct result of a structural or maintenance issue, such as a faulty extraction system, inadequate ventilation, or water seepage from a leaking pipe within the building structure, the obligation falls on the landlord to rectify it.

Your case in JVC is a classic example of the Dubai climate exacerbating a pre-existing ventilation issue. The extreme humidity, combined with a windowless bathroom, creates a perfect environment for mold, even with your diligent wiping. The persistent high humidity indicates the mechanical ventilation (exhaust fan) is insufficient, which is a landlord-provided fixture.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection to determine the exact cause and extent. Surface mold on grout can often indicate a more significant issue behind the tiles. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify hidden moisture sources and assess the ventilation system's performance. This objective report is crucial for discussing remediation responsibilities with your landlord.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your health and property are protected, please contact our specialists. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 11:40 pm