Can I clean apartment mold myself or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our Jumeirah apartment has been leaking a bit onto the carpet in the second bedroom, and now I’m seeing a bunch of small black spots along the base of the wall. It’s been about three weeks and the musty smell is getting stronger every time we walk in. Is this something I can clean with vinegar from Spinneys or do I absolutely need to call a professional mold removal company?
Posted by Yuko Matsumoto
Asked on April 5, 2026 7:35 pm
Based on the description of your situation in Jumeirah, I strongly advise against a DIY cleaning attempt and recommend you call a professional inspection and remediation company immediately. Here’s why.

The small black spots and persistent musty odor are clear indicators of an active mold colony. In Dubai's climate, with its extreme humidity and constant AC use, what you see on the surface is often just the tip of the iceberg. The AC leak has saturated the carpet and likely the underlying underlay and potentially the wall cavity itself, creating a perfect, hidden environment for mold to thrive. Surface cleaning with vinegar or bleach will only address the visible spores, leaving the root colony intact. This will cause the mold to return quickly and potentially spread further through airborne spores.

Furthermore, improper disturbance can aerosolize toxic mold spores (like Stachybotrys, which can appear black), significantly degrading your indoor air quality and posing health risks. UAE regulations, particularly from Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines for property habitability and indoor air quality, making professional remediation not just a health choice but often a legal necessity for landlords and property managers.

A certified professional from a company like Saniservice will conduct a thorough inspection, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the full extent of the contamination. The remediation process involves containment, professional-grade antimicrobial treatment, removal of contaminated porous materials like carpet and underlay, and drying with industrial equipment to prevent recurrence.

For a situation involving HVAC leaks and structural materials, calling a pro is essential. Contact Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 7, 2026 7:43 pm