Notify landlord about black mold behind kids' wardrobe?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for a couple of weeks, and I just discovered a patch of black mold behind their bedroom wardrobe. The wall feels slightly damp, and we're in an older building in Jumeirah 1. Is this something I should notify my landlord about immediately, or is it safe for me to clean it myself with bleach?
Posted by Fang Phan
Asked on March 29, 2026 7:49 pm
Based on your description, this situation requires immediate and professional attention. The combination of a persistent health symptom like non-stop coughing in children and the discovery of black mold on a damp wall is a significant concern. In the UAE's humid climate, particularly in older buildings in coastal areas like Jumeirah 1, hidden condensation and AC drip pan leaks are common, leading to the perfect conditions for toxic mold growth behind furniture.

You should absolutely notify your landlord immediately. Under Dubai rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring it is habitable. A dampness issue leading to mold growth falls squarely under this obligation. Document the mold and the damp wall with clear photographs and send a formal written notification to your landlord or property management company, requesting urgent remediation.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself with bleach. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and plaster; it only bleaches the surface color without addressing the root fungus. More critically, improper cleaning can aerosolize highly toxic mold spores, significantly worsening the indoor air quality and potentially exacerbating your children's respiratory issues. Disturbing the colony without proper containment protocols poses a serious health risk.

The dampness indicates an ongoing moisture problem that must be identified and rectified first. We strongly recommend a professional inspection and testing. Our certified experts at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the mold species (crucial for understanding toxicity), identify the exact moisture source, and provide a protocol for safe, guaranteed remediation. Please contact us for an immediate consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com. Your family's health is paramount.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 5:43 pm