How to remove black mold in JVC rental closet?« Back to Previous Page

Your situation is common in Dubai, especially after periods of heavy fog that spike indoor humidity. The dampness in your closet and the symptoms you describe are strong indicators of a mold issue that needs addressing.

For a small patch (under one square foot), you can attempt to clean it yourself. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a mixture of white vinegar or a dedicated mold-cleaning solution, then wipe it dry. However, since the wall is interior and consistently damp, the mold is likely growing due to a hidden source of moisture, possibly condensation from an AC duct running inside the wall or a minor leak. Simply cleaning the surface will not solve the underlying problem, and the mold will almost certainly return.

Given that it's a rental, your first step should be to notify your landlord or property management company in writing. Dubai law requires landlords to provide a habitable property, which includes addressing persistent dampness and mold issues that affect health. They are typically responsible for investigating and fixing the source of the moisture.

If the landlord is unresponsive or the problem recurs after their repair, that is the point to call a professional. A proper mold inspection uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the hidden water source. Remediation then involves fixing that leak, isolating the area, removing contaminated materials like damp drywall, and HEPA vacuuming to clear spores. Since your husband is already experiencing reactions, a professional approach is advisable to ensure spores aren't spread throughout the apartment during cleanup, which can worsen symptoms. For verifiable results, a reputable company will provide before-and-after lab reports to confirm the spore count has been returned to safe levels.