DIY Mold Removal or Pro Needed for JVC Apartment?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit and now we’ve found a patch of black mold, about the size of a football, behind the bedroom wardrobe. It’s been humid for the last month and the smell is really musty. Is this something I can tackle myself with bleach from ACE, or do I absolutely need to call in a professional mold remediation company, and if so, what’s a rough cost I should expect for a job this size?
Posted by Hassan Al-Thani
Asked on March 29, 2026 9:15 pm
Based on your description of a football-sized patch of black mold resulting from AC leakage in JVC, I strongly advise against a DIY approach and recommend immediate professional intervention. The combination of the water source (leaking AC), the humid Dubai climate which acts as an incubator, and the presence of black-colored mold, which can include toxigenic species like Stachybotrys, creates a significant health and property risk.

Using bleach from a hardware store is ineffective and potentially dangerous. Bleach does not kill mold on porous surfaces like drywall or wood; it only bleaches the visible colour, allowing the root structure to continue growing unseen. Furthermore, mixing bleach in an enclosed space can create toxic fumes. The location behind the wardrobe also suggests the infestation is likely more extensive than what is visible, possibly having penetrated the wall cavity.

In the UAE, proper mold remediation is not just about cleaning; it involves a rigorous process: containing the area to prevent spore spread, identifying and eliminating the moisture source (in this case, repairing the AC leak), removing and disposing of contaminated porous materials, HEPA vacuuming, and applying professional-grade antimicrobial agents. For a job of this suspected size, which likely requires partial demolition of the wall, you should expect a rough cost starting from AED 2,500 to AED 5,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the required repairs.

For a certified inspection and a definitive remediation plan, you should contact a professional company. I recommend reaching out to Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. You can call them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Their experts are equipped to handle this safely and in compliance with local standards, ensuring the problem is resolved at its root.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 3:27 am