Is AC leak causing dangerous mold in my bedroom?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah seems to be leaking a bit of water, and now I’ve spotted a few small black patches of what looks like mold on the wall behind the bedroom curtain. It’s been really humid lately and I’m worried it could spread quickly. Is this something I need to get my landlord to fix as an emergency, or is it okay to wait a few days for maintenance?
Posted by Akash Tiwari
Asked on March 25, 2026 8:48 pm
The situation you describe is a common yet significant issue in Dubai, particularly in humid periods. An AC unit leaking water creates a constant source of moisture, which, combined with our high ambient humidity and the organic material in building dust, provides the perfect conditions for mold growth. The black patches you see are almost certainly mold colonies, likely of the Cladosporium or Stachybotrys (black mold) varieties, which thrive in such damp, poorly ventilated spaces.

While not every mold type is acutely toxic, all indoor mold can degrade indoor air quality and pose health risks, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory irritation, coughing, and other allergic reactions.

Under Dubai's rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and essential services, which includes the proper functioning of the AC system and remediating any resultant damage like mold. This is not typically classified as a 24-hour emergency requiring immediate vacating, but it is a pressing maintenance issue that should be reported to your landlord or property management immediately. Delaying allows the mold to spread further into the wall cavity, increasing the scope and cost of remediation.

We strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified technicians can identify the exact mold species, assess the extent of the contamination hidden within the wall, and provide a detailed report for your landlord. This is crucial for ensuring the remediation is done correctly, not just superficially cleaned. For immediate advice or to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 3:29 am