Black mold on wardrobe in Dubai: landlord or inspector first?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots and dampness you describe are almost certainly mold, a common issue in Dubai's climate due to high humidity and the constant temperature shifts from AC. The damp wall behind the wardrobe suggests a potential condensation issue or a hidden leak, which must be addressed to prevent recurrence.

You should notify your landlord in writing first, as per Dubai rental law (RERA), which typically holds them responsible for the structural integrity of the property and fixing issues like leaks. Provide clear photos and request immediate action. Simultaneously, you can arrange for a professional inspection yourself. A reputable inspector will conduct moisture mapping and potentially air or surface sampling to identify the mold species and moisture source, providing a documented report you can share with the landlord. This evidence-based approach is crucial for ensuring the problem is properly resolved, not just superficially cleaned.

For a small, isolated patch, a cleanup with a vinegar or diluted bleach solution may suffice, but given the damp wall and spread you mention, professional remediation is strongly advised to handle spores safely and locate the underlying moisture problem. Treatment involves containing the area, removing contaminated materials like the affected drywall, and using HEPA filtration, followed by verifying the space is dry and spore-free. Simply wiping it away will not stop it from returning.

Ultimately, the landlord should cover the costs for remediation and repairs if the issue is structural. An independent inspection report provides the necessary evidence to support your claim and ensures the work is done to a verifiable standard.