Should I clean mold myself or inform landlord?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in the corner of my rental bedroom. The area by the wall where the mold seems to be growing is about the size of a small pizza slice. I’m not sure if it’s something I should address since this is a rental, but I don’t want to risk making things worse or get into an argument with the landlord over who is responsible. Should I try to clean it myself, or is it better to bring this up with the landlord?
Posted by Michiko Choi
Asked on February 25, 2026 7:33 am
When dealing with mold in your rental property, it’s crucial to approach the situation with caution. Given the recent heavy rain and the noticeable musty smell in your corner bedroom, it seems prudent to act promptly but carefully.

Firstly, do not attempt to clean the mold yourself if you are unfamiliar with the proper techniques. In Dubai/UAE, especially in a rental unit, the responsibility for addressing such issues can be complex, depending on local regulations and agreements between tenants and landlords. However, as a general guideline, it is advisable to first inform your landlord about the presence of mold.

You should communicate this issue formally in writing via email or letter, providing details including the location, size, and nature of the mold growth. This approach ensures that both parties are aware and can collaborate on finding a solution without any misunderstandings. The email might include:

Subject: Mold Growth Notification

Dear [Landlord’s Name],

I am writing to inform you of the presence of mold in my bedroom, as described below:

Location: Bedroom corner by wall
Size: Approximately the size of a small pizza slice
Observation: Musty smell and visible growth

According to recent heavy rains, I believe this could be due to water intrusion. Please let me know your preferred method for addressing this issue.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

If you decide to proceed with cleaning after informing the landlord, ensure that you follow safe practices such as wearing protective clothing (gloves, mask), opening windows for ventilation, and using appropriate cleaning agents like solutions of bleach or specialized mold cleaners. However, given the size and potential impact on your rental property, it would be wise to consult a professional environmental inspection company.

In Dubai/UAE, companies like Saniservice can provide detailed assessments and remediation plans adhering to local health and safety standards. Their services are available through calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com. They specialize in mold inspections, testing, and remediation, ensuring that any issues are handled appropriately.

Remember, while addressing the mold is important for maintaining a healthy living environment, it’s equally crucial to communicate effectively with your landlord to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 26, 2026 4:40 pm