AC leak causing wall mold: DIY fix or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our villa in Jumeirah 3 has been leaking a bit into the wall behind it, and now we're seeing a few small black spots on the skirting board. It's been like this since the humidity really kicked in last month. I'm handy with tools, but I'm worried about it spreading inside the wall where I can't see. Should I try to clean this myself with bleach or is it time to call a professional mold inspection company?
Posted by Jacob Garcia
Asked on March 27, 2026 7:00 pm
Based on your description of an AC leak in Jumeirah 3 leading to wall penetration and visible black spots on the skirting board, my professional recommendation is to cease any DIY attempts and contact a certified professional immediately.

The climate in Dubai, with its high ambient humidity and year-round reliance on AC systems, creates a perfect environment for mold proliferation. The visible spots on the skirting board are almost certainly just the tip of the iceberg. The moisture from the leak has likely saturated the wall cavity, insulation, and potentially the structural elements behind it, where mold colonies can grow extensively out of sight. Applying bleach is a common but ineffective and potentially hazardous DIY mistake. Bleach only removes surface discoloration on non-porous materials and does not kill mold roots (hyphae) embedded in porous surfaces like drywall or wood. More critically, it can release harmful spores into the air and its fumes can react with other chemicals.

A professional inspection is crucial. We use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to map the exact extent of water damage and hidden mold growth within the wall. Air and surface sampling are then conducted to identify the species and concentration of mold, which is vital for determining the correct remediation protocol, especially as some species can be more problematic than others.

For a comprehensive assessment to prevent further structural damage and potential health issues, I strongly advise you to call our team. Saniservice specializes in this exact scenario, following UAE best practices for mold investigation and remediation.

Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a detailed inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 9:11 pm