How urgent is the mildew issue, and what should I do?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent heat wave, I noticed an unusually strong odor of mildew coming from the kitchen after we had a party. The restaurant hasn't cleaned up their mess in days, and now it's affecting the whole apartment. How urgent is this issue, and what steps should I take to address it with management?
Posted by Eunji Kang
Asked on January 25, 2026 7:36 am
0
The mildew issue is definitely urgent. Mildew can release spores and chemicals that affect indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly, leading to respiratory issues for your residents. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, given the recent heat wave, humidity levels can be quite high, making conditions ideal for mold growth.

Firstly, you should address this issue with immediate urgency. The kitchen area is a high-risk zone as it contains moisture from cooking and cleaning activities which can create an environment conducive to mold growth. Here are steps you should take:

1. Ventilation: Ensure the kitchen has adequate ventilation by opening windows or using exhaust fans. This will help reduce humidity levels and prevent further mold development.

2. Immediate Cleaning: Request that the restaurant clean up any visible mess, including food waste and water spills promptly. Mildew thrives in damp conditions so quick action is key to preventing it from spreading.

3. Professional Inspection: Consider hiring a professional environmental inspection service like Saniservice (you can reach them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) to assess the extent of mold growth and provide remediation solutions that comply with UAE regulations, including those set by the Dubai Health Authority.

4. Documentation: Keep records of your communication with management regarding this issue. This will be important if further action is needed.

5. Preventive Measures: Once resolved, work with the restaurant to implement preventive measures such as ensuring proper drainage systems and using dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture accumulation.

Addressing mold issues promptly not only improves IAQ but also prevents potential legal or health concerns for your residents. The UAE has strict regulations concerning indoor environmental quality, especially in shared spaces like apartments where tenants' health can be affected by poor conditions.

Remember, the health of your community should always come first. If the situation does not improve quickly, do not hesitate to escalate this issue through appropriate channels within your building management or resident association.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 26, 2026 4:50 pm