Is landlord or tenant responsible for black bathroom grout?« Back to Previous Page

Black grout in a bathroom is almost always a moisture issue, not a cleaning one. In Dubai's high humidity, especially in an enclosed space like a bathroom, this is a common problem. The black discoloration is typically Stachybotrys or Cladosporium mould, which feeds on the constant moisture and organic matter in the grout.

Your use of the exhaust fan is good, but it may not be sufficient if the fan is underpowered, the bathroom lacks adequate ventilation, or there is a hidden leak behind the tiles. Scrubbing only removes surface growth; the mould's roots (hyphae) penetrate deep into the porous grout, guaranteeing its return.

Responsibility depends on the root cause. Under standard Dubai tenancy contracts (Ejari), the landlord is responsible for fixing issues related to the property's structure and inherent systems, including faulty ventilation, plumbing leaks, or waterproofing failures. The tenant is typically responsible for general maintenance and cleaning.

Since you are using the exhaust fan and the problem persists, this strongly suggests an underlying issue with the property itself. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best) that the mould is recurring despite proper ventilation, indicating a potential structural or ventilation fault. Request a professional inspection to determine the exact moisture source.

A proper assessment by a mould inspector can identify if the issue is high ambient humidity, condensation from cold water pipes, a leaking seal, or inadequate waterproofing. This evidence-based report is crucial. If the inspection reveals a property defect, the landlord is obligated to address it. If the inspection confirms humidity is the sole cause and the ventilation is adequate, then ongoing maintenance may fall to you, but this is less common in persistent cases. Do not attempt to remediate it yourself with bleach, as this can aggravate spores and will not solve the moisture problem.