Who should clean moldy grout in shared space?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a greenish tint forming on the grout of the shower tiles in our bathroom. My roommates and I are pretty sure it’s mold, but we’re not sure who is responsible for cleaning it up—since it’s technically part of the shared space. Has anyone else had this issue or know what to do?
Posted by Mary Young
Asked on January 11, 2026 12:04 pm
In the UAE, specifically in Dubai, mold issues can be quite common due to high humidity levels and often warm temperatures. When you notice a greenish tint forming on your bathroom's grout, it is indeed likely indicative of mold growth. However, addressing this issue in shared spaces requires careful consideration.

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that mold remediation should follow UAE standards and regulations. The Ministry of Community Development (MoCD) and the Dubai Municipality have guidelines for maintaining public health and safety, which are essential when dealing with such issues. Since your concern is regarding a shared space in your apartment or residence, you must consider both legal responsibilities and practical solutions.

In practice, it's advisable to contact the property management company if available, as they typically bear responsibility for common areas under UAE housing laws. They should initiate a professional inspection by a certified environmental inspector or hygienist (Saniservice is one such service provider). If no management exists, or if your landlord is unresponsive, you can file a complaint with relevant authorities like the Dubai Municipality.

For immediate action, you and your roommates could document any visible mold growth, take photos, and send an email to your landlord or property manager outlining the issue. Ensure that these communications are polite but firm, as they should be responsible for maintaining the shared spaces in compliance with local regulations.

If no resolution is reached through standard channels, engaging a professional remediation service like Saniservice could be necessary. They can provide a detailed inspection and remediation plan that complies with UAE standards. Remember to select services that are certified and knowledgeable about mold issues in the region, as techniques and products used may differ from other parts of the world.

In terms of practical steps, you should wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks when inspecting or cleaning any affected areas yourself. Use a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water for initial spot cleaning; however, this is just a temporary measure until professional assistance can be sought.

Lastly, it’s important to maintain good indoor air quality by ensuring proper ventilation in your bathroom and keeping humidity levels low. Regularly opening windows or using an exhaust fan during and after showering can help prevent mold from forming again.

In summary, while you might feel responsible for the initial inspection and communication with management, ultimately, the responsibility lies with the property owner or manager to address such issues according to UAE regulations. Engaging a professional service like Saniservice ensures that the remediation process adheres to local standards and provides long-term solutions.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 12, 2026 9:44 pm