AC mold from leak: contact building or specialist first?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our master bedroom has been leaking a little bit onto the carpet for a couple of weeks, and now I’m seeing a few small black spots along the edge of the skirting board. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this problem after the last humid spell. What's the best way to get a proper mold inspection done here in Dubai, and should I contact my building management first or just call a specialist directly?
Posted by Khalid Al-Hashim
Asked on March 11, 2026 4:08 pm
Based on your description, this is a classic case of AC-induced mold growth, a very common issue in Dubai due to the high ambient humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning systems. The condensation from a leaking AC unit provides the perfect moisture source, and the organic material in the carpet and skirting board offers the food, creating an ideal environment for mold colonization. Those black spots are a visible sign; however, the hidden contamination within the wall cavity or under the carpet pad is often more extensive.

In the UAE, the responsibility for addressing this falls on a few parties. The first point of contact should absolutely be your building management or owner. They are responsible for the maintenance of the central chiller system, the AC distribution lines, and the structural integrity of the building envelope. Report the leak immediately and request that their HVAC technician repair it to stop the moisture source. This is a crucial first step, as any inspection or remediation is pointless if the water intrusion continues.

However, for the mold inspection and assessment of contamination, you should engage a specialist environmental company directly. Building maintenance teams are not certified or equipped to perform the necessary testing and develop a remediation protocol. A professional inspection will involve a visual assessment, moisture mapping of the affected areas, and likely air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration of mold spores. This data is vital to determine the scope of remediation required to ensure your family's health and safety.

For a thorough, certified mold inspection and testing service in Dubai, I recommend contacting Saniservice. Their experts use industry-standard protocols and can provide you with a detailed report, which can also be used to formally communicate with your building management. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize the spores and spread the contamination throughout your bedroom.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 13, 2026 12:16 pm