Black mold from AC making us sick, call landlord first?« Back to Previous Page

Our bedroom AC unit has been leaking a bit for the last couple of months and now I’ve found black, fuzzy patches growing on the wall behind the curtain. My husband has had a constant stuffy nose and a cough that just won’t go away, and I’m starting to get worried it’s connected. What’s the best way to handle this in Dubai—should we tell the landlord first, or just call a professional cleaning company ourselves to get it tested?
Posted by Margaret Johnson
Asked on March 19, 2026 8:45 am
Based on your description, this is a serious situation that requires immediate and professional attention. The black, fuzzy patches are highly indicative of a significant mold colony, and the persistent respiratory symptoms you describe are classic signs of exposure to mycotoxins released by molds like Stachybotrys chartarum (often called "toxic black mold"). In Dubai's climate, continuous AC operation creates massive condensation issues, and a leaking unit is a prime source of the chronic moisture mold needs to thrive.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the colony without proper containment will aerosolize the spores, drastically increasing your exposure and contaminating other areas of your home. A standard cleaning company is not equipped for this; you require a certified mold inspection and remediation specialist.

Regarding the landlord: You should absolutely inform them immediately. According to UAE rental law, the landlord is typically responsible for the maintenance of major building systems, including central AC units and the structural integrity of the property. Provide them with written notice and photos. However, do not wait for their response to act on your health. The testing and remediation process is specialized.

I strongly recommend you call a professional environmental company like Saniservice. Our certified inspectors will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and concentration levels. This data is crucial for determining the correct remediation protocol and provides a legal report for your landlord. We then execute the remediation using industry-best practices: full containment, HEPA filtration, and antimicrobial treatment to ensure the problem is solved at its source.

For your health and your home's safety, please contact us for a professional evaluation. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 10:15 am