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

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah seems to be leaking a bit, and now I’m finding these small black spots in the corner of my bedroom closet. I wiped them with vinegar but they came back within a week, and the damp smell is still there. Is it worth trying to tackle this myself with something stronger, or should I just call a professional mold removal company here in Dubai and what would that usually cost?
Posted by Barbara Lee
Asked on March 21, 2026 6:57 pm
Based on your description of a recurring issue with a damp smell, this is definitely not a DIY job. Here in Dubai, the high humidity, especially from AC condensate leaks, creates the perfect breeding ground for mold. The fact the spots returned after a basic vinegar clean is a major red flag – it means the moisture source is active and the mold has likely penetrated the building material (drywall, plaster) or is growing within the AC system itself.

Vinegar and bleach are surface treatments at best. Using stronger chemicals yourself is risky; you could aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination throughout your apartment, or use a product that reacts poorly with the material or isn't approved for use here.

Professionally, we'd start with a full inspection, including moisture mapping and air quality testing to identify the exact species and spore count. This is crucial because some molds common in UAE properties can be more problematic than others. Remediation involves isolating the area, using HEPA filtration to capture spores, removing and disposing of contaminated materials as per Dubai Municipality guidelines, and most importantly, fixing the primary cause – that AC leak.

Cost for a professional job in a Dubai apartment can vary widely based on the extent, but for a contained area like a closet, you might be looking at a range from AED 1,500 to AED 4,000+, which includes inspection, remediation, and a post-clearance test. It's an investment in your health and property.

For a proper assessment and quote, you should call a certified company. You can reach our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Don't risk making it worse.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 23, 2026 3:42 pm