Found mold behind wardrobe in Dubai villa - landlord or pro first?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom in this Jumeirah villa has felt really humid for the last month, even with the AC on full blast. I finally pulled the wardrobe away from the wall today and found a huge patch of black and green mold spreading behind it, probably from a slow leak in the en-suite bathroom. The smell is awful and I’m worried about my family breathing it in. What’s the best way to handle this properly? Should I call a professional remediation company here in Dubai, or are there specific steps I need to take with my landlord first?
Posted by Pranav Dubey
Asked on March 17, 2026 12:45 pm
Based on your description, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional attention. The combination of a persistent musty odor, visible growth (especially black and green mold), and a suspected hidden leak behind the wall in a high-humidity climate like Dubai's points to a significant infestation that likely extends beyond what you can see.

In the UAE, the responsibility for addressing such issues typically falls on the landlord, as it pertains to the structural integrity and habitability of the property (as per the Dubai Rental Law). Your first step should be to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the discovery and including clear photographs. This creates a necessary paper trail. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize the spores and spread the contamination throughout your villa.

Concurrently, you should engage a certified mold inspection and remediation company. A professional assessment is critical. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify the exact source of the moisture and the full extent of the growth, which is almost always worse inside the wall cavity. Remediation involves isolating the area with containment barriers, using HEPA filtration scrubbers to clean the air, and safely removing all contaminated materials. Simply wiping it away is completely insufficient and hazardous.

For a situation this advanced in a Jumeirah villa, professional remediation is not just recommended; it is essential for your family's health. We strongly advise you to call for a comprehensive inspection. You can reach our certified team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment and discuss the proper protocol with your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 6:20 am