Black mold in villaa bedroom - DIY or call landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The black, fuzzy growth is likely a result of the high humidity and condensation common in Dubai, especially on exterior walls that can develop thermal bridging. Your first step is to document the issue thoroughly with clear photographs and a video, then formally notify your landlord in writing. Under Dubai rental law (RERA), landlords are generally responsible for addressing structural and maintenance issues like dampness that lead to mold.

For a small area (under one square meter), you can attempt to clean it yourself. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and goggles. Scrub the area with a solution of detergent and water, then wipe with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) to disinfect. However, this only addresses the visible growth, not the underlying moisture source.

Given the location behind a wardrobe on an exterior wall, the problem is likely more extensive than what's visible. The wall itself may be retaining moisture. A professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the root cause—whether it's a hidden leak, insufficient insulation, or condensation from AC ductwork. In Dubai's climate, simply cleaning the surface without fixing the humidity source means the mold will almost certainly return. A certified inspector can use moisture meters and thermal imaging to assess the wall's condition and provide a report for your landlord, which is far more effective than a DIY guess.