Found black mold in closet. DIY removal or call maintenance?« Back to Previous Page

First, move everything away from the affected area to prevent cross-contamination. For a small patch (under one square meter), a DIY approach can be effective. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a mixture of detergent and water, then wipe it down with a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to four parts water). Allow it to dry completely. The key is not just cleaning but eliminating the moisture source.

In Dubai's climate, this is almost always due to condensation from the AC or high ambient humidity. Check if the cold air from a nearby AC vent is hitting that wall directly, causing condensation. Ensure your AC is not set too low and that the room is well-ventilated. Using a dehumidifier or moisture absorber in the closet can help prevent recurrence.

However, since you mention a long-standing damp feeling, this suggests a persistent moisture issue that could be a hidden leak within the wall from a pipe or a crack in the building envelope. In such cases, DIY cleaning is only a temporary fix. You should notify your building's maintenance immediately. Under Dubai regulations, the building owner is responsible for the structural integrity of the property, including investigating and repairing concealed leaks. A professional inspection is warranted to use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the source. If the mold returns after cleaning or the patch is large, a lab test to identify the species is advised to fully understand the health risk.