How to clean black mold and inform landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold in a closet on an exterior wall is a classic sign of condensation due to the temperature difference between Dubai's hot outdoor air and your cooled indoor air. The wall is likely acting as a cold bridge, causing moisture to accumulate.

For a small patch (under one square foot), you can clean it yourself. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and eye protection. Scrub the area with a mixture of detergent and water or a dedicated mold remover, then dry it thoroughly. However, since you mention a persistent damp feeling and suspect it's behind shelves, the visible patch is likely just the tip of the issue. The mold is probably growing within the wall cavity.

Under UAE tenancy law, the structural integrity and water-tightness of the property are the landlord's responsibility. You must inform them in writing. This is not just a cleaning issue; it's a moisture intrusion problem they need to fix to prevent structural damage and potential health impacts. They are obligated to investigate and remediate the source, which may involve repairing a leak, improving insulation, or addressing external waterproofing.

For a case like this, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the full extent behind the wall. A company with microbiological lab capabilities can identify the species and provide the landlord with an evidence-based report on the required remediation, which often goes far beyond surface cleaning.