How to safely remove mold from damp villa wall?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our villa in Al Barsha for about two years and I just pulled out the wardrobe in my kid's bedroom to find a bunch of black, fuzzy mold on the wall behind it. It's been so humid lately that the walls feel slightly damp to the touch. What's the best way to get rid of this safely and permanently, and should I be calling our landlord first or a professional cleaning company?
Posted by Susan Johnson
Asked on March 27, 2026 11:41 pm
Based on your description, this is a classic case of mold growth caused by the high humidity levels we experience in Dubai, particularly in areas with poor air circulation like behind furniture. The dampness on the wall is a significant concern as it indicates an ongoing moisture issue that must be addressed for any remediation to be permanent.

For a small, isolated patch (less than 1 square meter), you can carefully clean it yourself. First, ensure your child is not in the room. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and eye protection. Scrub the area with a solution of detergent and water. Do not use bleach, as it does not kill mold roots and can release harmful fumes, especially in a confined space. After cleaning, the area must be dried completely. However, simply cleaning the surface is a temporary fix.

The critical factor is the source of the moisture. In Al Barsha villas, this is often due to condensation from the extreme temperature differential between the air-conditioned interior and the hot, humid exterior, or sometimes from a hidden plumbing leak. The wall must be professionally assessed to diagnose the root cause.

You should absolutely contact your landlord first. According to UAE rental law, the property owner is typically responsible for addressing structural issues and defects, including persistent dampness and mold resulting from inadequate waterproofing or building envelope failures. Inform them immediately and request a professional inspection.

For a proper and permanent solution, I strongly recommend a professional assessment. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact source of the moisture behind the wall. Remediation involves containing the area, using HEPA filtration, applying professional-grade antimicrobials, and most importantly, resolving the dampness issue. For a definitive diagnosis and a guarantee that the mold will not return, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 10:11 pm