Black mold in shower corner: clean myself or call management?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold growing in the corner where the shower meets the ceiling in our Marina apartment. It’s been incredibly humid the last few weeks and the bathroom ventilation fan has always been a bit weak. What’s the most effective way to clean this myself, or should I immediately call my building management to handle it?
Posted by Jaya Yadav
Asked on May 11, 2026 3:28 am
For a small patch (under one square foot), you can clean it yourself. The humidity in Dubai, especially during summer and in coastal areas like Marina, creates perfect conditions for mold in bathrooms with poor ventilation.

Wear a mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a dedicated mold remover or a solution of distilled white vinegar and water. Avoid bleach—it only removes the surface color and doesn't kill the roots, so the mold often returns. After cleaning, run a dehumidifier or improve airflow to dry the area completely.

If the patch is large, has penetrated behind the paint or ceiling board, or returns quickly after cleaning, you should involve building management. Dubai's strata laws often hold the building responsible for fixing the underlying cause, which is likely inadequate ventilation in the common duct system. They need to assess and potentially upgrade the extractor fan's power.

In severe cases, or if you experience persistent musty odors or health symptoms, a professional inspection can identify the species and extent of the problem. They use moisture meters to find hidden dampness that you can't see.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 12, 2026 5:48 am