Is landlord responsible for black mold remediation as tenant?« Back to Previous Page

Under Dubai rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and habitability of the property. This includes fixing issues like persistent leaks or seepage in walls that lead to mold growth. Since your grout is blackening and the musty smell returns after cleaning, this strongly suggests an underlying moisture problem—likely from a leaking pipe behind the wall, faulty bathroom waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation.

As a tenant, your responsibility is general cleaning and maintenance. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, describing the recurring black growth and musty odor. It is advisable to include photos. This notification is crucial as it establishes a paper trail. The landlord is then obligated to investigate and address the source of the moisture intrusion.

For a problem this persistent, a professional inspection is needed to identify the hidden moisture source. Surface cleaning alone is ineffective. Remediation involves fixing the leak, replacing compromised grout or tiles, and ensuring the area is properly dried. In high-humidity climates like Dubai, bathrooms require excellent mechanical ventilation to prevent condensation, which is a common cause of such issues. If the landlord fails to act, you can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai.