Mold reappeared after cleaning; DIY fix or professional inspector?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit and now there are these small black spots appearing on the wall behind the bedroom curtain. I wiped them away with vinegar but they came back in a few days. Is this something I can keep treating myself, or do I need to call a professional mold inspector to check inside the walls?
Posted by Anna Flores
Asked on April 2, 2026 9:01 am
The reappearance of those black spots after a DIY cleaning is a significant indicator of an active mold colony that requires professional attention. In the climate of Dubai, with its high humidity and year-round reliance on AC systems, this scenario is common. The leak from your AC unit has created a persistent moisture source, likely saturating the drywall and insulation behind the surface. The spots you see are merely the visible fruiting bodies; the main root structure (hyphae) is growing deep within the wall cavity.

Vinegar or surface cleaning is a temporary measure at best. It does not address the hidden moisture problem or the deeply embedded microbial roots. Furthermore, improper cleaning can aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination to other areas of your apartment. For a situation involving construction materials like drywall, a professional inspection is not just recommended, it is essential.

A certified mold inspector will conduct a comprehensive assessment. This includes using moisture meters to quantify the water content within the wall, thermal imaging cameras to visualize the extent of the dampness hidden from plain view, and air and surface sampling to identify the specific type of mold and its concentration. This data is critical for developing an effective remediation protocol, as per UAE standards for healthy indoor environments.

Given the AC leak is the source, the repair of the unit and addressing any condensate drain line issues are also paramount to prevent recurrence. For a thorough inspection and a scientifically-backed remediation plan, I strongly advise you to contact our specialists. Please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 12:00 am