AC Leak Causing Mold and Sickness: DIY or Call Landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Call your landlord immediately. A leak persisting for months with visible mold growth and health symptoms like a scratchy throat and morning headaches requires professional remediation. In Dubai's humid climate, AC condensate leaks create ideal conditions for mold, and the species commonly found in such environments can cause the exact symptoms you describe.

For your safety, move your bed away from the affected wall and avoid disturbing the mold, as this can release spores into the air. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to control surface dust, but do not attempt to scrub the mold yourself. DIY cleaning with bleach or other store-bought solutions often fails to address the root moisture problem and can worsen spore dispersion.

Your landlord is typically responsible for addressing the leak source and subsequent repairs under standard tenancy contracts. The fastest resolution is to formally notify them in writing, requesting urgent action to fix the AC unit and remediate the mold. They should hire professionals who will first stop the leak, then contain and remove the contaminated materials, followed by a proper cleaning. Given your symptoms, confirming the mold is gone post-remediation through a separate indoor air quality test can provide peace of mind.