Should my landlord fix black mold under shower sealant urgently?« Back to Previous Page

My bathroom in our Jumeirah apartment has had this musty smell for weeks that I can't get rid of, but I just pulled back the silicone sealant around the shower and found a ton of black mold underneath. It's been really humid lately and my toddler has been using that bathroom more often. Is this something I need to get my landlord to fix immediately, or can it wait a couple of weeks until our scheduled maintenance?
Posted by Nisha Reddy
Asked on March 30, 2026 4:25 am
As a certified mold remediation specialist operating in Dubai, I can confirm that the situation you describe requires urgent attention from your landlord. The presence of extensive black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum is a common suspect) concealed under silicone sealant is a significant health and structural concern.

The persistent musty odor is a classic indicator of active microbial growth, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and the condensation generated from hot showers. This environment creates a perfect breeding ground for mold within wall cavities and sub-surfaces, which often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. For a toddler with a developing respiratory system, prolonged exposure to mold spores can lead to allergic reactions, asthma exacerbation, and other health issues.

Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended), landlords are obligated to maintain the property in a habitable condition. Structural and hidden defects that affect health and safety, such as concealed water damage and mold infestation, fall squarely under their responsibility. You should formally notify your landlord in writing immediately, detailing the discovery with photographs. Do not delay for scheduled maintenance, as the problem will continue to worsen.

This is not a simple surface cleaning task. Improper removal can aerosolize a high concentration of spores throughout your apartment. Professional assessment and containment are critical. We at Saniservice use moisture meters, borescopes, and air quality testing to determine the full extent of the infestation behind the tiles and walls before executing a controlled remediation process.

For immediate advice and to schedule a professional inspection, I strongly recommend you contact our team. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to ensure the problem is resolved safely and effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 3:11 am