Is AC mold causing our illness; hire or tell landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots and your symptoms are likely connected, as mold growth from AC condensation leaks is a common issue in Dubai's humid climate. The persistent dampness in carpet and behind skirting boards creates an ideal environment for mold, which can cause the exact respiratory irritation you're describing.

For a situation involving a structural leak and potential wall/floor contamination, you should notify your landlord or building management first. Under typical Dubai rental agreements, the landlord is responsible for repairing the source of the leak—the AC unit and its drainage system. They are also typically responsible for remediating damage to the property structure, like the walls and flooring.

However, do not rely on a general handyman for the mold itself. Once the leak is fixed, the mold remediation must be handled by a specialist to prevent it from returning. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it should include moisture mapping and air/surface sampling to be analyzed by a microbiology lab. This identifies the species and confirms the spore count in your air has returned to a safe level.

The most effective removal for settled mold in carpets and porous materials like drywall is physical removal and replacement, not just chemical spraying. After remediation, request a post-clearance test to verify the environment is safe. This documented, science-based process is what separates effective remediation from a temporary fix.