AC mold and scratchy throat: emergency call landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, you should contact your landlord immediately. The damp smell, visible black spots, and your scratchy throat are strong indicators of active mold growth, a common issue in Dubai's climate due to high humidity and year-round AC use. The condensation from your AC unit is likely providing the moisture mold needs to thrive on that wall.

Document everything with clear photos of the spots and a note about your symptoms. Under Dubai rental regulations, the landlord is typically responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and addressing health hazards like this. Prompt action is key to prevent the mold from spreading into the wall cavity, which would make remediation more complex.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach or other store-bought solutions, as this often just bleaches the surface and doesn't address the root moisture problem or the health risks. For a case with visible growth and physical symptoms, a professional inspection is advised to identify the mold type and the full extent of the issue. The inspection can determine if the AC unit itself is contaminated and needs specialized cleaning. A proper remediation plan should address the source of the moisture, remove the contaminated materials, and clean the air.