How to safely clean blakc mold in Dubai rental« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading in the corner of our master bedroom closet where we store our winter clothes. It’s on the wall that faces the outside, and I'm worried the recent humidity made it worse. What’s the best way to safely clean this myself, and is this something I absolutely have to report to my landlord in Dubai?
Posted by Sandra Brown
Asked on April 2, 2026 6:35 pm
Black mold in Dubai's climate is often a sign of excess moisture, typically from condensation on cold exterior walls or a hidden leak. For a small patch under one square meter, you can clean it yourself safely.

Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and goggles. Isolate the area from the rest of the home if possible. Mix a solution of one part distilled white vinegar to four parts water or a diluted bleach solution (follow product instructions carefully). Scrub the area thoroughly, then dry it completely with a fan. The source of the moisture must be addressed; otherwise, it will return. This often means improving air circulation in the closet, using a dehumidifier, or identifying a leak.

Under Dubai rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), structural issues leading to mold, like leaking pipes or faulty external waterproofing, are the landlord's responsibility to repair. Cosmetic cleaning is typically the tenant's duty. You should formally report the issue to your landlord or building management, especially as it's on an exterior wall, to document the problem and ensure there isn't a larger structural defect causing it. If the mold covers a large area (over one square meter), returns quickly after cleaning, or you experience health symptoms, professional inspection with lab testing is recommended to identify the species and the exact moisture source.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 5:36 pm