Black mold on bedroom wall in Dubai - landlord first?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, speak with your landlord first. In Dubai, the responsibility for structural repairs, including moisture issues leading to mold, typically falls on the property owner. Notify them in writing with clear photos of the affected area and its location on an external wall.

The black spots spreading behind a wardrobe on an exterior wall strongly suggest a persistent moisture issue. This is common here due to condensation from AC units meeting the high outdoor humidity, or from a small leak in the building envelope. The wall being blocked by furniture restricts airflow, creating a perfect damp environment for growth.

For professional treatment, the process is not just cleaning the visible mold. A reputable inspector will first identify and address the root moisture source. Remediation involves isolating the area, removing contaminated materials like drywall if necessary, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. Crucially, the underlying cause—be it thermal bridging, a leak, or insufficient ventilation—must be fixed to prevent immediate recurrence.

Given its concealed location and spread, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the extent. They can provide a documented report for your landlord outlining the cause and necessary corrective actions, which is often more effective than a tenant's request alone.