Is black mold in closet urgent for landlord to remove?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold that's been growing in the corner of their bedroom closet. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it a couple of weeks ago, but it seems to be spreading quickly since the weather got more humid. How urgent is it that I get this professionally removed, and is this something I should call my landlord about immediately?
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Yes, this is urgent and you should notify your landlord immediately. In Dubai, black mould growth is often a sign of a persistent moisture issue, which the landlord is typically responsible for rectifying under standard tenancy contracts. The recent humidity spike has accelerated its growth, and the proximity to your children makes it a health priority.
The coughing is a common reaction to mould spores, especially in children. While not all black mould is the highly toxic Stachybotrys, any widespread growth requires professional assessment. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and worsen the air quality. Disturbing it without proper containment risks spreading it throughout the room. Document the mould with clear photos and send a written notice to your landlord or property management company today, citing the potential health impact. They should engage a specialist to first identify and fix the source of the moisture—likely a hidden water leak from plumbing or condensation from an AC duct running through the closet—and then perform the remediation. For a case this advanced with health symptoms present, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. They can determine the species and the full extent of the growth, which often spreads behind walls. Proper remediation involves containment, HEPA filtration, and removal of affected porous materials like drywall or insulation. |
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