Wall marks from sofa: wear and tear or my responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

This is a common issue in Dubai rentals. Marks from furniture are typically considered normal wear and tear, especially if it's just a shadow or outline and not actual damage to the paint or wall. The key factor is whether the wall's surface is damaged or just discolored.

Dubai's climate contributes significantly to this. High humidity and dust accumulation, combined with year-round AC usage, can cause very fine dust to settle and become trapped between the wall and any stationary furniture. This often creates a faint, shadow-like outline that is difficult to remove with simple cleaning because it's a combination of dust and slight moisture-related marking, not just surface dirt.

Before your inspection, try a more targeted approach. Use a mild detergent solution with a soft sponge, but test it in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the paint. For persistent marks, a magic eraser melamine foam block can be effective, but use it gently as it acts like a very fine sandpaper and can remove a thin layer of paint if scrubbed too hard.

You are likely not responsible for repainting the entire wall. According to common tenancy contract interpretations in the UAE, fair wear and tear does not fall under tenant liability. If the landlord insists it is damage, you can request a professional assessment to confirm it is merely superficial discoloration. For the most credible evidence, a professional inspection can document the condition with a detailed report.