Black mold in bedroom closet: call landlord or inspector first?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet, behind some shoe boxes. The wall feels a bit damp, and I'm worried it might be spreading from inside the wall itself. What's the best way to handle this in a villa here—should I call the landlord first or get a professional mold inspection myself?
Posted by Sophie Petit
Asked on April 2, 2026 4:45 pm
This is a common issue in Dubai villas, often stemming from high humidity and condensation within exterior walls. Given the dampness you feel, the source is likely inside the wall cavity, which means surface cleaning alone won't solve it.

Your first call should be to the landlord or property management company. Under typical Dubai rental contracts, the landlord is responsible for addressing structural issues, including internal leaks and moisture intrusion that lead to mold. Document the issue clearly with photos and a written description before you contact them. They should dispatch their own maintenance team to investigate and fix the water source.

However, if the landlord is unresponsive or their handyman suggests a simple wipe-down without identifying the moisture source, then hiring an independent professional is your next step. A proper inspection involves moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint the leak's origin inside the wall, which is crucial for a permanent fix. In Dubai's climate, a persistent leak can quickly lead to widespread mold growth and structural damage. A certified inspector can provide a documented report detailing the cause and necessary remediation steps, which you can then use to ensure the landlord completes the repair correctly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 2:03 am