AC leak caused black mold in closet, DIY or call management?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold from an AC leak is a common issue in Dubai due to the high humidity and constant AC operation. The damp, earthy smell confirms active growth. For a small area (under 1 square meter), you can handle it yourself with caution: wear an N95 mask, goggles, and gloves. Isolate the area, scrub with a mixture of detergent and water, then disinfect with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Dry the area completely with a fan; dehumidifiers are highly effective in our climate.

However, an AC leak is the root cause. You must call building management immediately to stop the leak. Dubai Law No. 11 of 2003 and the Strata Law (Law No. 27 of 2007) generally make building management responsible for fixing leaks originating from common AC systems or the building structure.

For porous materials like drywall or your jackets, cleaning is often insufficient; they may need to be discarded. If the mold covers a larger area, is inside the wall cavity, or if anyone has respiratory issues, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the full extent and verify remediation was successful, as improper handling can spread spores. A certified inspector can use moisture meters and provide lab analysis to identify the mold type and confirm the space is safe.