Found black mold under AC vent - call landlord or cleaner?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold under an AC vent requires immediate action due to potential health risks and structural damage. In Dubai's high humidity, this is a common issue caused by condensation from the AC unit, often from a clogged drain line or poor insulation.

Call your landlord first. According to typical tenancy contracts in Dubai, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential systems, including the AC and addressing resultant damage like this. Inform them immediately with clear photos and request they send a qualified AC technician to fix the root cause—likely the condensate drain. Simply cleaning the mold without fixing the moisture source will guarantee its return.

For the mold itself, the size (a hand-sized patch) and location (on concrete under carpet) indicate a professional remediation company is necessary. Disturbing it yourself can aerosolize spores throughout your home. Professionals will contain the area, safely remove the contaminated carpet section, and treat the concrete subfloor. In many cases, the concrete can be cleaned and sealed, but the carpet padding will almost certainly need replacement.

A legitimate company will not just clean but should also be able to diagnose the moisture source and provide documentation, like before-and-after lab test results, to verify the space is safe. Once the leak is fixed and mold remediated, consider using a dehumidifier in the room to help manage the humidity that year-round AC operation creates.