Is black mold behind wardrobe an emergency to tell landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The wall behind our bedroom wardrobe in JVC has felt damp for a couple of weeks, but now I’m seeing actual black speckles spreading on it. My allergies have been way worse than usual, and I'm worried it's making us sick. How quickly do I need to get my landlord to fix this—is it something I should be calling them about in the middle of the night, or can it wait a few days for a normal maintenance request?
Posted by Ying Guo
Asked on March 27, 2026 7:21 pm
Based on the symptoms you're describing—dampness, visible black speckles, and exacerbated allergies—this constitutes a significant indoor air quality issue that requires prompt attention. In the UAE's humid climate, especially in areas like JVC, this is unfortunately common, but it should not be ignored.

While I wouldn't classify it as a "call in the middle of the night" emergency, it absolutely cannot wait for a normal, non-urgent maintenance request. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing first thing in the morning. Under typical tenancy agreements in Dubai, the landlord is responsible for addressing structural and maintenance issues like this, which are likely due to a hidden water leak or condensation trapped behind the wardrobe.

The combination of visible growth and health symptoms means remediation is needed. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can aerosolize spores and worsen your allergic reactions. A professional inspection is crucial to identify the moisture source (e.g., leaking AC drain line, pipe seepage, or thermal bridging) and assess the full extent. The remediation process involves containing the area, safely removing the affected materials, and using specialized equipment like HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers to cleanse the air.

For a proper assessment and to ensure your landlord addresses it correctly, I recommend contacting a certified professional. We can provide a detailed report for your landlord.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 11:09 am