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

Black shower grout is typically a tenant's maintenance responsibility in Dubai, unless it's proven to stem from a structural defect. The black discoloration is almost always surface mould caused by high humidity and inadequate drying, which is a cleaning and ventilation issue.

Under standard Dubai rental contracts (EJARI), tenants are responsible for routine maintenance and keeping the property clean and free from damage caused by neglect. This includes addressing mould that forms due to daily activities like showering. Landlord responsibility is triggered only if the mould is a direct result of a building defect—such as a leaking pipe inside the wall, faulty waterproofing, or a broken sealant that allows persistent moisture ingress.

Given your description of a musty smell that persists after scrubbing and its onset after humid weather, this strongly points to a chronic moisture issue. Your first step is to improve ventilation: run the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and ensure the AC is functioning properly to manage indoor humidity. If the problem persists, the underlying cause needs investigation.

To determine responsibility, you must identify the moisture source. A professional inspection can use moisture meters and borescopes to check for hidden leaks or failed waterproofing behind the tiles. If such a structural defect is found, the landlord is obligated to repair it under the law. Without that evidence, addressing the surface mould falls to you. For a lasting solution, the grout may need professional cleaning or replacement with a mould-inhibiting product, followed by consistent ventilation—a critical practice in Dubai's climate.