Mold from leaking AC: DIY or professional cleaning cost?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now I’m seeing these black, speckled patches spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. We’ve been waking up with stuffy noses and I’m worried it's the mold. For a problem like this in a two-bedroom apartment in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, is it better to hire a professional cleaning company or try to handle it myself, and what’s the rough cost I should expect?
Posted by Miguel Mueller
Asked on April 11, 2026 3:00 pm
Based on your description, this is a serious case that requires immediate professional intervention, not a DIY project. The black, speckled patches indicate active growth, and the proximity to your AC unit combined with your health symptoms (stuffy noses) are major red flags. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and year-round AC use create constant condensation issues, a small leak can lead to extensive hidden mold colonization inside the wall cavity and the AC system itself.

Attempting to clean this yourself is highly inadvisable. Improper handling will aerosolize the spores, spreading the contamination throughout your apartment and potentially into the AC ductwork, exacerbating the health risk. Furthermore, Dubai Municipality has strict regulations regarding environmental health and mold remediation in residential buildings to protect all occupants.

A professional inspection is the critical first step. A certified specialist will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species (e.g., the potentially toxigenic Stachybotrys chartarum, or "black mold") and the full extent of the contamination. Remediation involves isolating the area, using HEPA filtration, safely removing contaminated materials, and a thorough hygienization of the space and the AC unit.

For a two-bedroom apartment in JLT, you should expect a professional inspection to start from AED 800-1,500, with full remediation costs ranging from AED 4,000 to AED 12,000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage behind the walls and within the AC system. This is a necessary investment in your health and property.

For an immediate assessment and quote, I strongly recommend you contact the experts at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Their certified team is equipped to handle this safely and in full compliance with local regulations.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 13, 2026 12:06 pm