AC leak causing mold and health issues, who to call?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our Deira apartment has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now I've spotted black, speckled mold on the wall behind the bedroom curtain. Lately, my throat has been feeling scratchy in the mornings and I'm waking up with a stuffy nose. What's the most effective way to get rid of this safely and who should I call, my landlord or a professional cleaning service?
Posted by Daniel King
Asked on March 24, 2026 3:26 pm
Based on your description, this is a serious situation that requires immediate professional attention, not a standard cleaning service. The black, speckled mold is a significant health risk, and your scratchy throat and morning congestion are classic symptoms of mold exposure.

In Dubai's humid climate, AC leaks are a primary cause of indoor mold. The constant condensation and cool temperatures create an ideal breeding ground. The mold growth behind the curtain indicates the leak has saturated the wall, likely allowing colonization inside the wall cavity itself. This is not a surface-level issue.

You must notify your landlord immediately. According to UAE rental law, the property owner is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the building and fixing issues like AC leaks that lead to mold. However, for the actual mold remediation, you need a certified environmental company, not a general cleaner. Improper removal can aerosolize spores and spread the contamination throughout your apartment.

The effective remediation process involves: first, a certified inspection to identify the species and extent of contamination; second, containing the area to prevent cross-contamination; third, removing the mold-infested materials (e.g., drywall, insulation); and finally, a thorough hygienization of the area using specialized antimicrobial agents, all while running industrial-grade HEPA air scrubbers. Only after the leak is fixed and remediation is complete should repairs begin.

For a professional inspection and certified remediation to ensure your home is safe and healthy, I strongly recommend you contact the experts at Saniservice. They are equipped to handle this correctly and can also provide the necessary documentation for your landlord.

Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate assessment. Do not attempt to clean this yourself.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 7:13 pm