Black mold behind wardrobe: call landlord or cleaning company first?« Back to Previous Page

Contact your landlord first. Tenancy law in Dubai generally places responsibility for structural maintenance and resolving issues like this on the property owner. They need to be notified immediately to assess the cause and authorize the repair, as this is likely a leak from the AC drain line or condensation within the wall.

A professional cleaning company cannot fix the underlying moisture source. The "awful smell" and spread indicate a significant, established growth that requires more than surface wiping. Effective remediation involves identifying and repairing the water intrusion, safely containing and removing the affected materials, and verifying the space is dry and clean through post-remediation testing. Given Dubai's high humidity, simply cleaning the visible mold will almost certainly result in rapid regrowth if the root cause isn't addressed.

For a case this advanced, a proper inspection is critical. The landlord should arrange for a certified mold assessor to determine the full extent. If they are unresponsive, you can document the issue and inform them you will be seeking a professional assessment, as unresolved dampness can cause further property damage. The goal is permanent resolution, which starts with stopping the water.