Black mold in closet: remove myself or call building management?« Back to Previous Page

Given the location and dampness you describe, your first call should be to building management to report a potential leak in the external wall. In older Bur Dubai buildings, this is a common issue that often originates from external water seepage, a structural problem only the building owner can fix.

While you wait for them, you can address a small patch (under one square foot) yourself. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Wipe the area with a diluted white vinegar solution, not bleach, as vinegar is more effective on porous surfaces like paint and can help kill the mould at the root. Dry the area thoroughly with a fan afterwards. However, this is only a temporary measure if the moisture source isn't fixed.

The UAE's high humidity, especially combined with year-round AC use creating temperature differentials, leads to condensation that feeds mould inside closets on exterior walls. Simply cleaning it will not stop it from returning without addressing the underlying dampness. A professional inspection can use a moisture meter to confirm the wall's saturation level and identify the exact entry point, which is crucial information to provide to your building management for an effective, permanent repair. For any area larger than a square foot, or if the mould returns after cleaning, professional remediation is strongly advised to ensure it is contained and removed safely.