Who fixes black mold in a rental apartment's bathroom?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for two years and just noticed black speckles growing in the grout between the wall tiles behind the toilet. It’s a small area but the damp smell is getting stronger, especially with the humidity. Since this is a rental, who is responsible for fixing this kind of thing—is it on me as the tenant or is my landlord supposed to handle the remediation?
Posted by Robert Torres
Asked on April 27, 2026 3:05 am
Tenant responsibilities in Dubai typically include minor maintenance and daily cleaning to prevent issues. Landlords are responsible for the property's structural integrity and fixing problems arising from inherent building defects, like faulty waterproofing or plumbing leaks.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the mold, as it's likely related to the persistent high humidity and potential hidden condensation issues common here. Document the issue with clear photos. They are generally obligated to investigate and address the root cause, such as a leak or inadequate ventilation.

For a small area, surface mold on grout can often be managed by you with proper cleaning using diluted vinegar or a dedicated mold-removing product, improving ventilation by running the bathroom exhaust fan longer, and using a dehumidifier. However, the increasing damp smell suggests a deeper moisture problem that may be behind the tiles.

If the landlord is unresponsive or the problem persists after their attempt to fix it, a professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source and mold type. This documented evidence is often necessary to clarify responsibility, especially in tenancy dispute cases. In Dubai's climate, unresolved bathroom humidity can quickly lead to recurrent mold, so addressing the underlying cause is essential.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 27, 2026 6:16 pm