Landlord or professional for damp closet mold in villa?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet on the outside wall has started smelling really damp, and I just pulled out a stack of winter clothes to find fuzzy black spots all over the back wall. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, but it's probably been growing since the humidity spiked a few months ago. What's the best way to handle this in a villa here—should I call the landlord first or get a professional cleaning company to assess it myself?
Posted by Amit Iyengar
Asked on April 8, 2026 12:40 pm
Inform your landlord immediately with clear photos of the damage, as this is typically their responsibility to rectify under tenancy law for structural issues. Simultaneously, request permission to get a professional assessment to determine the moisture source, which is critical in Dubai’s climate.

The damp smell and growth on an outside wall strongly suggest a hidden leak from plumbing, a cracked pipe, or, very commonly, condensation from an AC duct running through the void. Simply cleaning the visible mold is ineffective if the underlying water issue isn't fixed; it will return.

A professional inspection with moisture meters and thermal imaging can pinpoint the exact cause non-invasively. For extensive growth, lab testing can identify the mold type, which guides the correct remediation protocol. Landlords often appreciate a verified, science-backed report as it provides a clear scope of work for their contractors, ensuring the problem is solved permanently.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 10, 2026 5:24 pm