Can I remove large black mold myself or need a pro?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I finally pulled out the sofa in our Deira apartment to find a huge patch of black mold on the wall behind it, probably from a slow AC leak. It's about a meter wide and looks really bad. Is this something I can handle myself with bleach from Ace Hardware, or do I absolutely need to call a professional company, and what would that kind of job roughly cost?
Posted by Sunil Banerjee
Asked on April 1, 2026 3:45 pm
Based on the scenario you've described, I strongly advise against attempting to remediate this yourself with bleach. A one-meter-wide patch of black mold resulting from a concealed AC leak is a serious contamination issue that requires professional assessment and remediation.

The black discoloration is likely Stachybotrys chartarum, a toxigenic mold that releases mycotoxins into the air, which is a probable cause of your children's persistent coughing. Disturbing it during a DIY cleanup will aerosolize these spores, significantly increasing the airborne concentration and exacerbating health risks. Bleach is ineffective on porous materials like drywall and concrete; it only bleaches the surface color while leaving the root structure intact, allowing regrowth. It also introduces excessive moisture, fueling further mold growth.

In Dubai's high-humidity climate, exacerbated by year-round AC use that causes condensation, the underlying moisture problem must be professionally identified and resolved. A slow AC leak suggests an issue within the wall or HVAC system that needs expert diagnosis to prevent immediate recurrence. Our standard protocol involves using industrial-grade HEPA air scrubbers to contain spores, antimicrobial agents specifically designed for porous surfaces, and, most critically, the removal and replacement of the contaminated drywall. The cost for a professional remediation job of this scale typically ranges from AED 2,500 to AED 5,000, depending on the extent of the damage behind the wall and the required containment measures.

For the health of your family and to ensure the problem is solved permanently, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. I recommend you contact our team at Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 3, 2026 7:13 pm