Who to call first for closet mold: cleaner or maintenance?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet has had this damp, earthy smell for the past month, but I just pulled out our winter jackets from the back and found patches of fuzzy black mold all over the leather. It's the interior wall that faces the outside, and I'm worried it's spreading behind the shelves. What's the fastest way to get this professionally treated and who should I call first, a cleaning company or my building's maintenance?
Posted by James Lee
Asked on March 16, 2026 10:20 pm
Based on the description of the mold on your leather jackets and the persistent damp smell emanating from an exterior wall, this is a serious issue that requires immediate professional attention. Do not call a general cleaning company first. Their methods often spread spores and fail to address the hidden moisture source, leading to rapid regrowth.

Your first call should be to a certified mold inspection and remediation specialist, like Saniservice. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant air conditioning create significant condensation risks, especially on exterior walls, the problem is almost certainly behind the drywall. A general cleaner or even building maintenance will not have the technical expertise or equipment, such as moisture meters, borescopes, and HEPA filtration units, to properly diagnose and contain the issue. Building maintenance should be notified, but only after a professional assessment identifies the exact cause—whether it's a leaking pipe, inadequate insulation, or a breach in the building envelope—so they can perform the precise repair needed.

A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold type (crucial for determining the remediation protocol) and locate the moisture intrusion point. The remediation process then involves containment of the area, HEPA vacuuming, antimicrobial treatment, and finally, hygienization to restore a healthy environment. For immediate professional diagnosis and a compliant remediation plan, call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 18, 2026 3:53 am