Black mold in son's closet: clean myself or call management?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold in a closet on an external wall is a common issue in Dubai due to the high humidity and constant temperature differential between the air-conditioned interior and the hot exterior. This often leads to condensation forming inside walls, creating the perfect environment for mold.

For a small patch (under one square foot), you can clean it yourself safely. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a mixture of detergent and water, then thoroughly dry it. A dehumidifier or silica gel packs in the closet can help manage moisture. However, since your son is experiencing symptoms, the mold you see may not be the only growth. Spores can be present in the air.

Given the location on an external wall, this could indicate a more significant condensation or minor water intrusion issue within the building envelope. In such cases, cleaning the surface is a temporary fix. You should absolutely report this to your building management. Dubai Law No. 6 of 2010 places responsibility on the owner to maintain the property, including addressing structural issues that cause dampness. They should inspect the external wall and insulation.

For health concerns, especially with children involved, a professional inspection is prudent to assess the full extent and identify the species. A lab analysis from a surface or air sample can confirm if it's one of the more problematic types and guide the appropriate remediation steps.