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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black fuzzy patches I just found behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, but it must have been growing there for ages, probably from a slow leak in the wall AC unit. What's the best way to get this properly cleaned and treated here in Dubai, and should I call my landlord first or a cleaning company?
Posted by Sungjin Chen
Asked on May 11, 2026 9:15 am
Contact your landlord first. In Dubai, landlords are legally responsible for fixing the root cause of the problem, like the AC leak you suspect. Document the mold with photos and send a formal written notification via email or building management portal to create a record.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself. Disturbing black mold without proper containment can release a large number of spores into your home's air, potentially worsening your children's symptoms. The priority is identifying the mold species through a professional inspection and lab test, as some types common in Dubai's humid climate are more problematic than others.

A reputable indoor health company can conduct the inspection to pinpoint the moisture source and test the mold. They will provide a detailed remediation protocol for your landlord's contractor to follow, which should include fixing the leak, proper containment during removal, and verification that the area is truly clean after. Your landlord may prefer to use their own company for the physical cleanup, but the diagnostic testing ensures the job is done correctly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 14, 2026 3:41 am