Black mold in AC vent: who should I call?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be blowing out a really damp, earthy smell, especially in the master bedroom, and I've been waking up with a stuffy nose and a sore throat for the past two weeks. I finally pulled the vent cover off and found a patch of black, fuzzy mold growing inside the duct. Given our humidity, is this a common issue here, and should I be calling my building management or a professional mold removal company to handle this safely?
Posted by Lisa Garcia
Asked on May 4, 2026 3:50 pm
Black mold in AC vents is unfortunately common in Dubai due to the high humidity and constant AC use, which creates condensation inside the ducts. Your symptoms are a typical reaction to mold spores being circulated.

Your first call should be to your building management or landlord. Under Dubai regulations, they are typically responsible for maintaining the central AC system, including the ductwork. Report the issue and request a professional inspection and remediation. They often have contracts with HVAC servicing companies.

If the building's response is inadequate or slow, or if the mold is extensive, you may need to hire a professional mold remediation company. Look for a provider that uses containment procedures to prevent spores from spreading during cleaning and can provide before-and-after testing to verify the air quality has been restored. A proper remediation involves cleaning the entire duct system, not just the visible patch.

Until it's resolved, keep the AC off in that room to stop spreading spores and consider using a standalone air purifier with a HEPA filter. For a case with visible growth and health symptoms, professional assessment is strongly recommended to ensure it is handled safely.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 6, 2026 7:38 am