Black mold behind dresser: call management or clean myself?« Back to Previous Page

Call building management immediately and avoid using bleach. The damp wall indicates a moisture intrusion from inside the building envelope, likely a leaking pipe or seepage from a faulty external sealant, which is the landlord's responsibility to fix under Dubai's rental regulations. Bleach only removes surface discoloration and does not address the root moisture problem, allowing the mold to return.

In Dubai's climate, this is a serious concern. The constant high humidity and year-round AC use can cause condensation within walls if there's a breach, creating an ideal environment for mold. The type of mold must be professionally identified, as some species can exacerbate respiratory issues like the coughing you've observed. Proper remediation involves isolating the area, removing contaminated porous materials like drywall, and using HEPA filtration, not just surface cleaning.

Document the issue with photos and a formal written notice to your building management or landlord, citing the need for a leak investigation and repair. For health safety, consider a professional indoor environmental assessment to identify the species and extent of contamination, which will determine the necessary cleanup protocol. Until it's resolved, keep the area ventilated and the children out of the room.