Mold behind wardrobe: call landlord or remediation company?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids' room in our villa in Arabian Ranches has a persistent damp smell, and I just found a bunch of black spots behind their heavy wardrobe. It's been so humid lately and I'm worried it's been there for ages. What's the best way to handle this in Dubai – should I call the landlord first or a professional mold remediation company straight away?
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Move the wardrobe away from the wall immediately and ventilate the room. This is a common issue in Dubai villas, especially during humid periods, as heavy furniture traps cool, moist air from AC units against warm walls, creating perfect conditions for mold.
Document the mold with clear photos and contact your landlord first. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), the landlord is typically responsible for resolving structural issues causing dampness, such as potential leaks in the external wall or inadequate insulation—both common in the region's climate. They should arrange for a professional inspection to identify the moisture source. If the landlord is unresponsive or the problem is severe (covering more than a few square feet), you can engage a professional remediation company directly. Look for a provider that uses a certified microbiologist or offers lab analysis to identify the mold type, as this dictates the correct removal protocol. Proper remediation involves isolating the area, removing contaminated materials like drywall, and using HEPA filtration to clean the air, not just wiping the surface. For a lasting solution, the underlying moisture problem must be fixed. After remediation, consider using a dehumidifier in the room and ensuring furniture is kept a few inches from exterior walls to improve air circulation and prevent recurrence. |
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