Black mold in bathroom: DIY fix or contact building?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed these black, fuzzy spots creeping out from behind the silicone sealant around our bathtub in Deira. The bathroom doesn't have a window and the smell is getting really damp, especially since our last shower. What's the best way to handle this myself, or should I contact my building management first?
Posted by Steven Walker
Asked on March 28, 2026 7:45 am
Based on the description of black, fuzzy spots emerging from behind the silicone sealant, accompanied by a persistent damp smell in a windowless bathroom in Deira, you are dealing with a significant mold infestation. The humid Dubai climate, compounded by constant air conditioning and steam from showers with no natural ventilation, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, particularly behind compromised seals.

A DIY approach is not advisable for this scenario. Attempting to simply wipe the surface or re-caulk over the problem will fail. The visible growth is merely the surface manifestation; the main colony is thriving within the wall cavity behind the tiles and bathtub. Disturbing it without proper containment can aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination and potentially causing health issues. Furthermore, the root cause is likely a hidden leak in the plumbing or a failure in the waterproofing membrane, which requires professional diagnosis.

You should contact your building management first. According to common practice in Dubai tenancy agreements and the Dubai Building Code, the structural integrity and internal plumbing of the building are typically the responsibility of the owner or property management company. They need to be notified of the potential leak, which is causing property damage.

For a proper resolution, a professional inspection is critical. We at Saniservice use specialized tools like borescopes and moisture meters to determine the extent of the hidden damage and identify the moisture source. Our remediation process involves containment, safe removal of contaminated materials, addressing the root leak, and applying antimicrobial treatments before restoration. For a definitive assessment and to prevent health risks, please contact our specialists for a consultation. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 6:39 pm