Should I worry about small black spots from AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, you should have this professionally inspected. The combination of a long-term leak, visible black spots, and a damp smell indicates a high probability of active mold growth.

In Dubai's climate, the constant humidity and condensation from AC units create an ideal environment for mold. What you see on the skirting board is likely just the surface manifestation; the leak has probably saturated the carpet, underlay, and potentially the wall structure behind, where a larger colony may be growing unseen. The damp smell is a strong indicator of this hidden microbial activity.

While waiting for the AC technician to fix the source, a mold-specific inspection is crucial. A professional will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to assess the full extent of water damage and take air and surface samples for lab analysis. This identifies the mold species and concentration, which determines the necessary remediation steps. Simply cleaning the visible spots often fails to address the root problem, allowing it to return.

For your health, continuous exposure to mold spores, even from a small leak, can cause persistent allergy-like symptoms, sinus congestion, and respiratory irritation. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing it can release a large number of spores into the air you breathe. A proper assessment will provide the documentation needed to ensure your landlord addresses both the AC repair and the resulting damage comprehensively.