Black mold from AC leak in Dubai: landlord or cleaning company?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah has been leaking a bit, and now I've spotted this scary black, fuzzy patch spreading on the wall behind the bedroom wardrobe. It's been extra humid the last few weeks and the musty smell is really strong in that room. What's the fastest way to get this properly cleaned and treated here in Dubai, and should I call my landlord first or a cleaning company?
Posted by Samira Sharif
Asked on April 12, 2026 8:45 am
Contact your landlord immediately. In Dubai, landlords are legally responsible for maintaining the property's AC system and addressing structural damage caused by leaks, which this is. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper handling can disturb toxic spores and spread them throughout your apartment.

The black, fuzzy growth and strong musty odor strongly indicate a serious moisture issue, likely from the leaking AC unit and exacerbated by our high humidity. This requires professional mold remediation, not standard cleaning. A proper protocol involves containment of the area, safe removal of contaminated materials like drywall, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment to address the root cause.

Your landlord should arrange for a certified mold inspection to assess the full extent of the damage behind the wardrobe and inside the wall cavity. The remediation company they hire should provide a detailed scope of work and, ideally, independent verification that the space has been returned to a safe condition. For your health, especially with respiratory symptoms, insist on a company that conducts pre- and post-remediation testing to confirm the spore count has been effectively reduced.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 13, 2026 9:38 pm