How to remove mold from closet and notify landlord?« Back to Previous Page

That black spot pattern and damp smell point to condensation mold, very common in Dubai due to the high humidity and constant air conditioning creating a cold surface on that exterior wall. This is a maintenance issue, and your landlord is typically responsible for rectifying the source of the problem under Dubai's rental laws.

First, notify your landlord in writing with clear photos. This creates a record of the issue and its discovery date. The underlying cause is likely inadequate insulation or a thermal bridge in that external wall, allowing condensation to form behind the closet. Simply wiping the visible mold is a temporary fix; the moisture source must be addressed to prevent it from returning.

For your health, do not attempt to scrub it yourself without proper precautions. Disturbing it can aerosolize spores. A professional inspection can identify the exact moisture source and mold type. They use containment, HEPA filtration, and antimicrobial treatments to remove it safely from porous surfaces like drywall and clothing.

Until it's resolved, move your clothes out of that closet and consider using a standalone dehumidifier in the bedroom to keep humidity below 60%, which can help reduce further growth. The landlord should arrange for both the moisture intrusion repair and the subsequent mold remediation.