Urgent: Black mold under shower sealant, notify landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold under silicone sealant is a common issue in Dubai bathrooms due to the high humidity and condensation from constant AC use. This is a health concern and a maintenance issue that should be addressed promptly.

You should notify your landlord immediately. Under standard Dubai rental contracts, structural maintenance and issues stemming from building integrity (like hidden leaks in walls or plumbing that cause mold) are typically the landlord's responsibility. Provide clear photos and a written description. The musty smell indicates it may be more extensive than just the visible area.

For your safety, avoid disturbing it further. Do not attempt to bleach it, as this can aerosolize spores and only bleaches the color, not killing the root structure. A professional assessment is urgent if anyone in the household has respiratory issues, allergies, or a compromised immune system. Remediation involves safely removing the contaminated sealant, identifying and fixing the moisture source (often a micro-leak or capillary action from wet tiles), thoroughly drying the area, and applying new, high-quality sealant.

Until it's addressed, increase bathroom ventilation by running the exhaust fan for longer periods and wiping down wet surfaces after showers to help slow the spread.