Is black shower mold my landlord's responsibility to fix?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai tenancy law, a landlord is responsible for structural repairs and addressing issues related to the building's integrity, which often includes fixing leaks or faulty waterproofing that cause persistent dampness. You, as the tenant, are typically responsible for general cleaning and minor maintenance.

The key is determining the source. If the black discoloration is purely surface mold from shower condensation—common in JVC apartments due to our high humidity and year-round AC use—it’s likely a cleaning issue for the tenant. However, if the mold is returning aggressively despite regular scrubbing with bleach-based cleaners, it strongly suggests a deeper problem. This could be a hidden plumbing leak or failed shower sealant/grout that allows moisture into the wall cavity, which is a structural issue for the landlord.

Document the issue with clear photos and a dated log of your cleaning attempts. Report it in writing to your landlord or property manager, stating that the mold recurs persistently and you suspect a leak or waterproofing failure. Request a professional inspection to identify any concealed moisture. A proper assessment with a moisture meter can verify if water is trapped behind the tiles, which would shift the responsibility to the landlord for the remediation and repairs to prevent further property damage.