AC leak caused mold, sick. DIY fix or call landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The mold under your carpet is almost certainly connected to your symptoms, as the UAE's high humidity creates ideal conditions for mold growth from AC leaks. The constant AC use traps moisture, and this type of chronic exposure commonly causes the respiratory issues you're describing.

For a small patch under one square meter, a DIY approach can be effective if you are not immunocompromised. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a mixture of detergent and water, then disinfect with a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water. Dry the area completely with a fan; simply wiping isn't enough in Dubai's climate. You must also fix the AC leak source, or the mold will return immediately.

However, given the duration of the leak and that it's in your sleeping area, the mold growth is likely more extensive beneath the carpet and padding. Disturbing it yourself can aerosolize spores and worsen your exposure.

In Dubai, building management is typically responsible for fixing the AC unit itself, which is the source of the problem. You should report the leak to them immediately to stop the moisture intrusion. For the remediation of the resulting mold, especially since you are already experiencing health effects, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They can use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the full extent of the damage behind walls or under floors without causing further contamination. A certified company can then contain the area, safely remove affected materials, and verify with post-remediation testing that the spore count has been measurably reduced to a safe level.