Treat black mold from AC leak or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our villa in Al Barsha has been leaking into the wall behind it, and we’ve just pulled the unit out to find a huge patch of black mold on the drywall. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a couple of months ago, and we’re worried about our toddler’s allergies. Is this something we can treat ourselves with bleach from ACE, or is this a job for a professional mold removal company, and what kind of cost are we looking at for a fix like this?
Posted by Pooja Malhotra
Asked on April 15, 2026 7:40 pm
That black mold patch from a chronic AC leak is a serious concern, especially with a toddler experiencing allergies. In Dubai's high humidity, this is a common but hazardous issue.

Treating it yourself with bleach is not recommended. Bleach only removes surface discoloration on porous materials like drywall; it doesn't kill the roots and can release harmful spores. The drywall itself is likely compromised and acts as a permanent food source for mold if it's not properly removed and replaced.

For a leak that has persisted for months and created a "huge patch," this is a job for a professional remediation company. The process involves isolating the area, removing the contaminated drywall, HEPA vacuuming, and treating the cavity with specialized antimicrobial agents. A professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of the damage behind the wall.

The cost is variable and depends entirely on the square footage of affected material and the complexity of the repair. Reputable companies provide detailed, itemized quotes after an on-site assessment. Look for providers who can produce a certificate of remediation and, if needed, air quality test results from an independent lab to confirm the environment is safe before reconstruction begins.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 16, 2026 4:19 pm