How to treat black mold in Dubai rental as tenant?« Back to Previous Page

The humidity spike we've had is a classic trigger for this. First, document the mold with photos and notify your landlord in writing immediately—this is their responsibility to remediate under Dubai rental law. Do not attempt to paint over it.

For a small patch (under one square meter), you can clean it yourself while waiting for their response. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a mixture of white vinegar or a dedicated mold remover, then wipe down with a borax solution to discourage regrowth. Ensure the area is completely dry afterwards. The key is to address the moisture source; this mold likely grew due to condensation from the AC or lack of air circulation behind the furniture. Move the shoe rack away from the wall and use a portable dehumidifier in the closet.

If the mold returns after cleaning, has a musty odor, or covers a larger area, professional assessment is needed. Hidden mold within the wall or AC system often requires lab testing to identify the species and scope, which dictates the correct remediation method. Your landlord should arrange this.