Black mold in Jumeirah apartment: DIY or professional remediation?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit, and now I’ve found a patch of black mold about the size of a dinner plate behind the bedroom wardrobe. It’s been humid for the last month and the smell is getting mustier. Is this something I can tackle myself with bleach from ACE, or should I just call in a professional company for mold remediation, and what’s the typical cost for a job like this in Dubai?
Posted by Michel Durand
Asked on April 28, 2026 1:20 pm
A dinner plate-sized patch of black mold resulting from an AC leak is a significant concern, particularly in Dubai's humid climate where mold can proliferate rapidly. Given its location behind furniture and the persistent musty odor, this indicates a moisture problem that extends beyond the visible surface.

DIY with bleach is strongly discouraged. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall, as it only bleaches the surface mold while leaving the root structure intact. It also fails to address the hidden moisture source—likely a clogged condensate drain line from your AC unit. The agitation from cleaning can also release a large number of spores into your air.

Professional remediation is the recommended course of action for a case of this size. The process involves identifying and rectifying the AC leak, containing the area to prevent cross-contamination, safely removing the affected materials, and using HEPA filtration to clean the air. The musty smell confirms active microbial growth that needs addressing.

The final cost is variable and depends on the extent of the hidden damage. It is driven by the area of contamination, the materials affected (e.g., drywall, insulation), and the required repairs. For an accurate assessment and transparent quote, you should request an on-site inspection from a certified provider who can document the scope of work.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 28, 2026 6:51 pm