Is my AC causing mold and making me sick?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a little for the past month, and now I can see black spots spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. I’ve been waking up with a stuffy nose and a sore throat every morning, which clears up after I leave for work. Is this mold likely the cause of my symptoms, and what’s the fastest way to get my landlord to fix this properly?
Posted by Hans Janssen
Asked on March 19, 2026 6:07 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black spots are mold growth and that your AC unit is the direct cause of your symptoms. The constant moisture from the leak, combined with Dubai's high humidity and the organic material in building dust, creates an ideal environment for mold proliferation. The spores released into your bedroom air are a common irritant, causing the allergic-type symptoms you describe—stuffy nose, sore throat, and sinus congestion—which typically improve when you leave the contaminated environment.

The fastest way to compel your landlord to act is to formally notify them in writing (email is best for a paper trail) and reference Dubai Law No. (26) of 2007, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants. This law obligates the landlord to undertake all necessary maintenance to keep the property in a habitable condition. A persistent water leak and visible mold infestation constitute a significant breach of this obligation, affecting your right to a safe and healthy living environment.

However, simply fixing the leak and wiping the wall is insufficient. The hidden condensation within the AC unit and potential growth inside the wall cavity require professional assessment and remediation to prevent recurrence and ensure the spores are properly contained and removed.

For a definitive diagnosis and a legally compliant remediation report to present to your landlord, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified team at Saniservice can conduct a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the full extent of the contamination and provide a detailed scope of work for your landlord. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 21, 2026 3:54 pm