How to handle AC mold with landlord and clean it?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Downtown Dubai has been leaking a bit for the last few weeks, and now I've just found a patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading on the wall behind the bedroom unit. The room has started to smell really damp and my throat has been feeling scratchy in the mornings. What's the best way to handle this with my landlord and what should I clean it with myself in the meantime?
Posted by Yasmin Malik
Asked on April 22, 2026 7:35 pm
First, document everything with clear photos and a dated video showing the leak, the mold growth, and its proximity to your AC unit. In Dubai, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the central AC system and fixing leaks that cause property damage, including mold. Send a formal written notification to your property management company or landlord via email, describing the issue and attaching your evidence. Request immediate repairs to the AC leak and professional remediation of the mold.

For the wall, avoid using bleach as it can worsen porous surfaces and doesn't address the root moisture issue. A solution of distilled white vinegar can help surface-clean small areas, but it will not kill the mold roots inside drywall. Given the visible spread, damp smell, and your physical symptoms, this indicates a established colony. The constant humidity and condensation from a leaking AC unit in our climate creates an ideal environment for persistent mold growth.

Your health symptoms are a significant indicator that professional assessment is needed. Do not attempt a major cleanup yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize spores and worsen contamination. A proper remediation involves fixing the water source, isolating the area, removing affected porous materials like drywall, and HEPA vacuuming. For verification, a third-party indoor environmental professional can provide lab testing to identify the species and confirm the cleanup was successful.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 24, 2026 10:51 pm