Black spots in closet—call cleaner or mold specialist?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a bunch of black spots in the corner of our master bedroom closet, behind all the clothes. It's an interior wall and the room feels damp, even though we keep the AC running. I'm worried it's from a hidden leak or maybe the AC drain is blocked. What's the best way to handle this properly and who should I call first, a regular cleaner or a specialist?
Posted by Soo Matsumoto
Asked on March 28, 2026 8:24 am
Based on your description, you should absolutely call a certified mold specialist, not a regular cleaner. The presence of black spots on an interior wall, combined with a persistent damp feeling despite active AC, are classic indicators of a microbial issue that requires professional assessment and remediation, especially in Dubai's climate.

The dampness you describe is a critical clue. This is likely due to one of two common UAE-specific issues: a breach in the building envelope allowing humid air to condense on cooler wall surfaces, or more probably, a blocked AC condensate drain line. The constant humidity and year-round AC operation make drain pan overflow a frequent cause of hidden mold growth.

A regular cleaner will only superficially clean the visible spots, likely using bleach-based products which are ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and can actually aggravate the problem by adding moisture. More importantly, they are not trained to identify and rectify the underlying moisture source.

A certified mold inspector will first conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and thermal imaging, to locate the exact source of the water intrusion. They will then develop a protocol for safe containment and removal of the contaminated materials, followed by HEPA vacuuming and antimicrobial application to ensure the mold is eradicated, not just wiped away. For a situation like this, I strongly recommend contacting a professional service like Saniservice. Their certified technicians can properly diagnose the root cause—whether it's an AC issue or a leak—and execute a full remediation plan to ensure your home is safe and healthy. You can reach them for a consultation at 800-MOLDS or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 6:19 pm