AC leak causing mold: DIY clean or professional in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our master bedroom in our Jumeirah villa has been leaking a bit, and now we’re seeing black spots on the wall behind the curtain. My wife has been waking up with a stuffy nose and headaches for the past month, and we’re worried it’s the mold. Is this something we can clean ourselves with bleach from ACE, or do we absolutely need to call in a professional mold remediation company, and what’s the typical cost for a small job like this in Dubai?
Posted by Sophie Russo
Asked on May 11, 2026 1:05 pm
The symptoms you describe are consistent with mould exposure, particularly from a chronic source like an AC leak. The high humidity and constant AC use in Dubai create ideal conditions for mould to thrive on damp drywall.

For a small area of surface mould on a non-porous surface, a DIY clean with a detergent solution can be sufficient. However, your situation has several red flags: the mould is on a wall (a porous material), it's linked to a persistent moisture source (the AC leak), and health symptoms are already present. Bleach is not recommended; it only bleaches the surface and does not kill the mould roots penetrating the drywall. More importantly, fixing the AC leak is the critical first step—otherwise, the mould will return immediately.

In this case, a professional assessment is strongly advised. They will identify the exact mould type, assess the extent of water damage inside the wall cavity, and contain the area during remediation to prevent spores from spreading to other parts of your villa. The cost is not typically for a "small job" but for the full remediation process, which can vary significantly based on how far the moisture has travelled. You will need to request an on-site inspection for an accurate scope and quote. Always ensure the company you hire provides before-and-after lab reports to verify the mould count has been returned to acceptable levels.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 11, 2026 6:58 pm