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

Black mold under shower sealant is a health and structural concern that should be addressed promptly, not delayed. In Dubai's high humidity, mold colonies can proliferate quickly behind surfaces, often indicating a persistent moisture issue beyond just surface condensation.

For a rental in Dubai, your landlord is generally responsible for fixing issues that affect the habitability and structural integrity of the property, which includes hidden mold caused by leaks or inadequate ventilation. Document the issue with clear photographs and notify them in writing immediately. While a two-week wait may not cause catastrophic damage, the musty smell indicates active microbial growth that can worsen indoor air quality, potentially aggravating allergies and respiratory conditions.

The immediate step is to stop moisture ingress. Ensure your bathroom’s exhaust fan is working correctly and run it during and for at least 30 minutes after showers. Wipe down wet surfaces to reduce ambient humidity. Do not attempt to remove extensive mold yourself, as disturbing it can release a high concentration of spores into your living space.

For cases where the mold is extensive or you suspect a leak behind the tiles, a professional inspection is recommended to assess the full scope. They can identify the source of moisture—often a failed grout line or pipe leak—which must be repaired before any remediation, or the mold will simply return. Remediation involves removing the contaminated sealant, treating the substrate, and applying new, high-quality sealant.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference the Dubai Rental Law, which obligates them to undertake necessary maintenance. Escalation can be made through the Rental Dispute Center (RDC). For your own health and to prevent further property damage, this is not an issue to postpone.