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

The AC in my apartment seems to have been leaking water inside the wall behind it, and now there's a large patch of black mold spreading on the bedroom wall. We tried wiping it with bleach but it came back worse a few days later, and I'm worried about my family breathing it in. What's the realistic cost to get this properly treated by a professional company here, and is it a complete rip-off to try and DIY it with the humidity we have?
Posted by Swati Saxena
Asked on March 27, 2026 3:45 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described—black mold regrowth after a bleach wipe-down—this is a serious contamination that requires professional remediation. In Dubai's high-humidity climate, DIY methods are almost always insufficient and can be dangerous. Bleach only bleaches the surface pigments and does not kill the hyphae (roots) penetrating the porous wall material. The moisture from the ongoing AC leak then provides the perfect environment for it to return, often more aggressively.

The realistic cost for professional treatment in the UAE for a case like this depends on the extent of the damage behind the wall. A small, localized patch could start from AED 1,500-2,500, but if the leak has been persistent and the mold has spread inside the wall cavity, the cost for proper containment, removal of affected drywall/insulation, HVAC hygienization, and reconstruction can range from AED 4,000 to AED 8,000 or more. This is not a rip-off; it reflects the stringent protocols, specialized equipment (HEPA filtration, negative air machines, antimicrobial coatings), and certified expertise required to ensure the mold is eradicated at its source and that airborne spore levels are returned to a safe standard, which is critical for your family's health.

Attempting a DIY fix risks significant cross-contamination throughout your apartment and exposure to mycotoxins. The first step is to shut off the AC unit to stop the moisture source. I strongly recommend you call a professional company like Saniservice for a comprehensive inspection and moisture mapping. They can provide a precise assessment and quote. For immediate advice, you can call them at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 7:59 pm