Black mold in closet: DIY or call landlord?« Back to Previous Page

This is a classic case of condensation-induced mold, very common in Dubai's climate. The exterior wall is likely cooler from AC, and the recent high humidity created the perfect damp environment for growth on organic materials like leather.

For a small patch (under one square foot), you can DIY with caution. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Clean the wall with a solution of detergent and water, then disinfect with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Discard the contaminated shoes if possible. The critical step is to address the moisture source. Ensure the closet is well-ventilated; leave doors open and consider using a small desiccant dehumidifier. Wipe down the cold wall regularly to remove condensation.

However, if the mold has penetrated the wall material (drywall, plaster) or covers a larger area, or if the musty smell persists after cleaning, this is no longer a DIY job. The mold inside the wall could be extensive. In Dubai, your landlord is typically responsible for addressing structural issues leading to dampness, like inadequate insulation on an external wall or leaking pipes.

Contact your landlord immediately to report the issue. Document everything with photos and a written notice. They should arrange for a professional inspection to assess the hidden extent and proper remediation, which may involve removing affected building materials. A professional assessment is crucial to ensure it is resolved correctly and to prevent recurrence.