Black mold from AC leak: professional cost or DIY bleach?« Back to Previous Page

The black mould behind your wardrobe is a direct result of the AC condensate leak, a very common issue in Jumeirah villas due to our high humidity and constant AC use. Bleach is not recommended; it only removes surface discolouration and can push spores deeper into porous materials like drywall, while the water content can actually feed the mould root system.

For a patch larger than one square meter, or any mould caused by a persistent water source, professional remediation is strongly advised. The process involves physically removing the contaminated material, HEPA-vacuuming, and applying specialized antimicrobial agents to address the root cause. A proper inspection first identifies the exact moisture source—like a blocked condensate drain line—to prevent immediate recurrence.

Cost is highly variable, as it depends on the extent of hidden damage behind the wardrobe and wall. For a contained leak like this, you might be looking at a few hundred to over a thousand dirhams, but a site inspection is the only way to get an accurate quote. Any reputable provider should offer this assessment first.

For your safety during assessment, wear an N95 mask and gloves. The most critical step is stopping the leak at the AC unit; a certified HVAC technician can clear the drain line, which is often the culprit. If you proceed with a professional service, ensure they provide a post-remediation verification report, often involving air quality testing, to confirm the space is truly remediated.