Black mold in bedroom: landlord or hire professional first?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last month, and now we've found black spots spreading along the wall behind the wardrobe. My husband and I have both had constant stuffy noses and headaches for weeks and we're starting to worry it's connected. What's the most effective way to get this professionally tested and removed in Dubai, and should we be talking to our landlord first or just hiring someone ourselves?
Posted by Steven Robinson
Asked on March 24, 2026 5:20 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described—persistent headaches, stuffy noses, and visible black growth near a leaking AC unit—this is a serious indoor environmental concern that requires immediate professional attention. The UAE's high humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning create ideal conditions for mold proliferation, particularly when condensation from AC leaks provides a constant moisture source. The black spots are likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger, both of which are associated with the health effects you are experiencing.

In Dubai, your first step should be to formally notify your landlord in writing (email is best for a paper trail) about the leak and the suspected microbial growth. Under UAE tenancy law, landlords are typically responsible for maintaining the property's structure, including fixing AC leaks that lead to such damage. However, do not wait for their response to act on your health. The remediation of the mold itself is a specialized process that the landlord may not be equipped to handle correctly.

I strongly recommend you hire a professional environmental inspection company like Saniservice immediately. DIY cleaning or an improper remediation attempt can aerosolize spores, significantly worsening the contamination and your health symptoms. A certified specialist will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, then execute a containment protocol using HEPA filtration, antimicrobial treatment, and finally, hygienization of the area to ensure it is safe for occupancy. The landlord should be responsible for the cost of fixing the leak, and you can present them with the professional inspection report to substantiate the need for proper remediation.

For immediate assistance with testing and safe, effective removal, call the experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 8:41 am