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

In Dubai's rental market, responsibility for mold in bathroom grout depends on the underlying cause. The tenant is typically responsible for surface-level cleaning and maintaining adequate ventilation during and after showers. The landlord is responsible for fixing the root cause if it is a structural or maintenance issue, such as a hidden water leak, faulty waterproofing, or a broken exhaust fan.

Your situation—persistent mold behind the toilet in a damp area—strongly suggests a ventilation issue. Dubai’s high humidity, combined with constant AC use, creates significant condensation that standard wiping cannot resolve. First, document the issue with photos and formally notify your landlord in writing. Politely request they investigate the extractor fan's functionality; a broken fan is their responsibility to repair or replace under Dubai's tenancy laws, as it is a fixture.

If the fan is working but insufficient, you can request an upgrade to a higher-capacity unit. While waiting for a response, run the fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and consider using a portable dehumidifier. For severe, recurring mold that points to potential hidden leaks in the plumbing or walls, a professional inspection can identify the moisture source. This provides concrete evidence for your landlord if remediation is needed. If they are unresponsive, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center in Dubai, as a landlord is obligated to provide a habitable property free of health hazards.