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

In your situation, call your landlord first. Tenancy law in Dubai generally places the responsibility for structural maintenance, which includes addressing mold caused by condensation or building envelope issues, on the property owner. Document the mold with clear photographs and send a written notification to your landlord, as this creates a formal record of the issue.

Given the circumstances—black spots on an external wall with constant AC use—this is a common scenario in Dubai's climate. The temperature differential between the humid outdoor air and the cold internal wall surface creates condensation, a prime condition for mold growth behind furniture. This type of hidden moisture problem often requires professional diagnostic tools to assess the full extent.

If your landlord is unresponsive or attempts a superficial clean without identifying the moisture source, then engage a professional inspector. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden dampness and includes air or surface sampling to identify the mold species. This scientific approach is crucial, as it determines the root cause and appropriate remediation strategy, which is especially important with children experiencing respiratory symptoms. Companies with their own microbiology lab can provide the specific data needed to resolve the issue correctly.