Can I remove closet mold myself or need a pro?« Back to Previous Page

My master bedroom closet on the inside wall has had this damp, earthy smell for a couple of months now, and this weekend I finally pulled everything out and found a patch of black mold about the size of a dinner plate behind the clothes. I live in a villa in Jumeirah, and the AC is always on. Is this something I can tackle myself with bleach from Ace Hardware, or do I absolutely need to call one of those mold remediation companies, and if so, roughly what would that cost for a job this size?
Posted by Bader Al-Mansour
Asked on March 22, 2026 10:59 am
Based on the symptoms you've described—a persistent damp, earthy smell and visible black mold growth on an interior wall—this is a situation that warrants a professional inspection and likely remediation. The combination of Dubai's high ambient humidity and constant AC operation creates a significant risk of condensation within wall cavities, which is a primary cause of hidden mold growth. The visible patch is often just the tip of the iceberg.

Using bleach from a hardware store is strongly discouraged for several reasons. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and wood, as it only treats the surface mold and does not address the root moisture problem or the hyphae (root system) growing within the material. Furthermore, bleach can release harmful chlorine fumes, especially in a confined space, and its high water content can actually feed the mold problem later on.

For a proper remediation in a villa in Jumeirah, the cost for a professional job of that size can vary, but you should anticipate a range starting from approximately AED 1,500 to AED 3,500. This would include containment of the area, safe removal of contaminated porous materials (like the affected drywall), HEPA vacuuming, antimicrobial treatment of the cavity, and most critically, identifying and resolving the source of moisture, which is likely condensation from the AC system.

Given the health risks associated with improper handling of mold and the complexity of ensuring it is completely eradicated, I recommend you call a certified professional. Saniservice specializes in this exact scenario and can provide a precise diagnosis and quotation. You can reach them for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 24, 2026 2:52 pm