Should I remove closet mold myself or call maintenance?« Back to Previous Page

It depends on the size and whether it's a recurring issue. For a small patch (under one square foot) that hasn't returned after a previous cleaning, you can likely handle it yourself. For anything larger, or if you suspect it's inside the wall, contacting building maintenance is the necessary first step.

In Dubai, exterior walls can develop condensation due to the high outdoor humidity meeting the cold AC-chilled interior surfaces, creating a perfect environment for mold. Since it's on an exterior wall, this is a probable cause. Your building's maintenance is responsible for the building envelope and structural integrity. They need to inspect the wall from the outside for cracks or leaks and from the inside to assess the extent. They should rectify the moisture source before any cleaning is attempted.

If you proceed with a small-scale DIY clean, wear an N95 mask and gloves. Use a mixture of detergent and water, scrubbing gently. Avoid bleach, as it doesn't prevent regrowth and can damage porous surfaces. After cleaning, monitor the spot daily. If it returns quickly, the moisture problem is still active and professional assessment is needed.

For hidden mold or persistent regrowth, a professional inspection with moisture meters and possibly thermal imaging is recommended to find the moisture source. In many cases, a lab analysis of the mold is the only way to identify the species and confirm it has been properly remediated.