AC leak causing black mold: urgent to clean? Landlord or me?« Back to Previous Page

That water leak is creating a classic environment for mold growth. Given the high Dubai humidity, what you see on the surface is often just the visible part; the moisture has likely seeped into the carpet underlay and possibly the wall behind, where a larger colony can develop out of sight.

This is urgent to address. Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours of a water event, and a week is more than enough for it to establish itself. The summer heat will accelerate this process significantly.

Legally, this is your landlord's responsibility to repair and remediate. The AC unit and its associated drainage system are part of the building's infrastructure. You should notify them in writing immediately, describing the leak and the emerging mold. They are obligated to fix the source of the leak to prevent further property damage and potential health issues.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach or other household products. This will only temporarily remove the surface discoloration and can push spores into the air. The underlying moisture problem and hidden growth will remain. A professional assessment is needed to determine the full extent of the moisture damage, safely remove the affected materials, and ensure the AC drain line is cleared to prevent recurrence.