Are the black spots and damp wall a health risk?« Back to Previous Page

We've been in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for about a year, and over the last couple of months, I've started finding small black spots along the bottom of the bedroom wall that faces the outside. The wall almost feels damp to the touch, especially in the morning, and my allergies have been terrible. Is this a health risk I need to push my landlord to fix immediately, or am I responsible for cleaning it myself?
Posted by Emi Kimura
Asked on April 6, 2026 11:45 pm
Yes, the black spots and damp wall you describe are a health risk, particularly given your allergy symptoms. Dampness and visible mold growth are strongly linked to respiratory irritation, worsened allergies, and asthma. The consistent moisture suggests an ongoing issue that will not resolve itself.

In Dubai's climate, this is likely caused by condensation from your AC unit or a minor leak in the external wall. The wall feeling damp in the morning is a key clue; this is when the temperature difference between the air-conditioned interior and the hot, humid exterior is greatest, leading to condensation within the wall cavity.

You should formally notify your landlord in writing immediately. Per Dubai rental law (RERA), the landlord is responsible for fixing issues related to the building's structure, including external wall leaks and problems arising from faulty AC installation that cause property damage. Simply cleaning the visible spots yourself is ineffective and potentially hazardous, as it disturbs the spores without addressing the moisture source.

Request a professional inspection to identify the exact moisture source. A proper fix may involve repairing a leak, improving external sealing, or addressing the AC's condensate drainage. Only after the moisture issue is resolved should the mold be remediated by a professional to prevent it from returning and to ensure spores are properly contained during cleaning.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 5:22 pm