Building management or mold company for AC leak mold?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing more than usual and I finally checked behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. I found a huge patch of black mold spreading on the wall, probably from a slow leak in the AC unit. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it now. What's the best way to handle this properly in Dubai – should I call the building management first or go straight to a professional mold removal company?
Posted by Gary Hill
Asked on April 16, 2026 9:15 am
Your situation requires immediate attention from both parties, but the order matters. Start by notifying your building management or landlord in writing, as they are responsible for fixing the AC leak, which is the source of the problem. This is a standard tenant-landlord obligation in the UAE.

Simultaneously, you should engage a professional mold inspection company. The visible black patch is likely just a fraction of the growth; mold often spreads inside wall cavities from a persistent AC condensate leak. A proper inspection with moisture meters and thermal imaging can determine the full extent. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and year-round AC use, this kind of hidden moisture is common and can rapidly worsen.

Building maintenance teams are skilled at fixing leaks but are not equipped for safe, scientific mold remediation. Their attempt to simply wipe it away will not address the root cause or the hidden colonies, and it can aerosolize spores, potentially worsening your children's cough. A professional remediation team will contain the area, safely remove contaminated materials, and use HEPA filtration to clean the air, which is critical for sensitive individuals.

Once the leak is repaired by the building, the remediation company can then properly handle the mold removal and provide post-remediation verification to ensure the environment is safe. For a case of this size and with health symptoms present, a professional approach is strongly advised.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 17, 2026 9:49 am