Black mold behind sofa: clean or report to Dubai landlord?« Back to Previous Page

This is likely a condensation issue, common in Dubai when humid outdoor air meets a cold exterior wall, especially behind furniture that restricts airflow. The black spots are often a surface mould.

First, identify the source. Move the sofa away from the wall to allow air circulation. For a small area (under one square meter), you can clean it yourself with a diluted white vinegar or soap and water solution. Always wear an N95 mask and gloves to avoid inhaling spores or skin contact.

If the mould returns quickly, grows larger, or has a musty odour, the problem may be internal moisture within the wall itself, like a hidden pipe leak or seepage. This requires professional diagnosis to find the water source, as simply cleaning surface mould is ineffective if the root cause remains. In many cases, landlords are responsible for structural repairs like fixing leaks or inadequate insulation. It is reasonable to report the issue to them, especially if you suspect a building envelope fault. For documented evidence, a mould test from an accredited lab can identify the species and confirm the contamination level, which is useful for discussions with property management.