AC leak causing mold: DIY clean or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our Jumeirah apartment seems to be leaking into the wall behind it, and now we’re getting these black spots spreading on the wallpaper. I wiped it down but it came back worse within a few days, and the room has this damp smell. Is this a job I can handle myself with cleaners from ACE, or do I need to call in a professional mold remediation company, and what’s the cost difference I should expect?
Posted by Youssef Al-Salem
Asked on April 8, 2026 8:59 am
Based on your description of a recurring leak, visible black spore colonies, and a persistent damp odor, this is unequivocally a job for a professional mold remediation company, not a DIY project.

The situation you've described is a classic case of Category 2 or 3 water damage, where the leak has saturated the building materials (drywall, insulation) behind the wallpaper. Wiping the surface only removes the visible fruiting bodies, while the root mycelium network thrives unseen. The moisture from the ongoing AC leak provides a perpetual food source. Dubai's high humidity acts as a catalyst, ensuring rapid regrowth, often more aggressive than before.

Using store-bought cleaners is ineffective and can be dangerous. Bleach-based products are mostly water, which further feeds the mold, and they release harmful chlorine fumes, especially in a poorly ventilated space. More importantly, disturbing the mold without proper containment and air filtration will aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination to other areas of your apartment.

In the UAE, proper remediation is not just about cleaning; it's a controlled process. It involves identifying and stopping the moisture source (the AC leak), isolating the contaminated area with negative air pressure, safely removing and disposing of porous materials like damaged drywall and insulation, and using professional-grade antimicrobial agents. Finally, a post-remediation verification (PRV) test is crucial to confirm the spore count has returned to safe, ambient levels.

The cost difference is significant—a DIY attempt might cost a few hundred AED for cleaners and potential temporary fixes, but it will fail, leading to greater structural damage and health risks. Professional remediation for a localized area like this typically starts from AED 2,500-4,000, which is an investment in your health and property. For a proper inspection and to prevent further damage, you should call in a specialist immediately. Contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment and quote.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 11, 2026 4:01 am