Is this mold making me sick in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description of an AC unit leaking water and the subsequent appearance of black, speckled patches, it is highly probable that you are dealing with a mold colony, potentially including Stachybotrys chartarum (often referred to as "black mold") or more common species like Aspergillus or Cladosporium. The persistent moisture from the AC leak creates an ideal environment for such growth, especially within the confined, poorly ventilated space behind a wardrobe.

Your symptoms—a scratchy throat and morning stuffiness—are consistent with mold exposure. Mold releases microscopic spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) into the air, which act as irritants to the respiratory system, particularly during prolonged exposure while sleeping. The humid Dubai climate exacerbates this issue, as high ambient moisture levels encourage condensation and mold proliferation, making year-round AC systems a common source of such problems if not properly maintained.

For your health and the integrity of your property, professional intervention is essential. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize a high concentration of spores, worsening contamination and health risks. You require a certified mold inspector to conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration levels, which will dictate the correct remediation protocol.

The remediation process must address the root cause: the AC leak. A professional team will contain the affected area, remove the contaminated materials (e.g., drywall), perform HEPA vacuuming and antimicrobial treatment, and ensure the HVAC system is cleaned and repaired to prevent recurrence.

For professional testing and guaranteed remediation in Dubai, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They are specialists in this field and can provide a comprehensive assessment. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com.