Found black mold in bedroom closet. Handle myself or call landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The UAE's high humidity and year-round AC use create ideal conditions for mold, especially in dark, poorly ventilated spaces like closets. For a small patch you just discovered, you can often handle it safely yourself if you address the moisture source.

First, identify the cause. In Marina apartments, this is often condensation from an AC duct running near the closet or humidity trapped by stored items against an exterior wall. Move everything out to let the area dry completely. To clean, wear a mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a mixture of white vinegar or a dedicated mold-cleaning solution, then wipe it down with a damp cloth and let it dry thoroughly. Do not use bleach, as it only removes the surface colour and does not kill the mold roots.

However, if the patch is larger than one square meter, has a strong musty odour, or if you or any family members are experiencing respiratory issues, it's time to involve your landlord. Under Dubai rental regulations, the property owner is typically responsible for resolving issues that affect the habitability of the unit, which includes significant mold infestations stemming from building-related moisture problems, like a leaking pipe in the wall or faulty external waterproofing.

If the mold returns quickly after cleaning, that indicates a persistent hidden moisture issue a professional should diagnose. In such cases, a certified inspection can identify the exact mold species and moisture source, which is crucial for effective remediation and provides documented evidence for your landlord if needed.