Is AC leak causing mold and my husband's cough?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom in our Jumeirah villa has been leaking a little for a couple of months, and now we’ve started seeing these black spots in the corner of the wardrobe on the wall it shares with the AC unit. My husband has had a persistent cough for weeks that just won’t go away. What’s the best way to get a proper mold inspection done here to see if this is the cause?
Posted by Lina Al-Sabah
Asked on March 24, 2026 9:10 am
Based on the symptoms you've described – the AC leak, the black spots on the wardrobe wall, and your husband's persistent cough – there is a very high probability that you are dealing with a mold issue. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity is constant, AC systems are a primary source of condensation. A persistent leak creates a perfect, continuous moisture source, and the organic materials in your wardrobe (wood, wallpaper, clothing) provide the food source for mold spores, which are ever-present in the air, to colonize.

The black spots are a classic visual indicator of mold growth. More concerning, however, is the cough. Exposure to mold, particularly the types that thrive in damp, cellulose-rich environments (like Cladosporium or Stachybotrys), can cause a range of health effects, including chronic coughing, throat irritation, wheezing, and other allergic or respiratory symptoms.

A proper inspection is critical. In the UAE, this is not a DIY task. A certified professional will conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes a visual inspection of the AC unit, the leakage path, and the affected building materials. Crucially, they will perform air quality and surface sampling to identify the specific genus and concentration of mold spores present. This scientific data is essential to determine the severity of the contamination and to formulate an effective, targeted remediation protocol, as mandated by Dubai Municipality guidelines for healthy indoor environments.

Given the clear moisture source and health symptoms, I strongly recommend you engage a professional environmental company immediately. I advise you to contact Saniservice. Their certified experts are equipped with the necessary tools and follow strict UAE protocols to accurately diagnose the problem and provide a solution. You can reach them for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com. Do not disturb the area, as this can aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the health issues.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 6:28 pm