How to kill mold under AC leak in Dubai apartmnet?« Back to Previous Page

The most effective approach starts with fixing the AC leak—this is the landlord's responsibility under Dubai rental law (RERA). Until the moisture source is stopped, any cleaning is temporary. For a leak that's been active for weeks, the mold growth under the carpet and potentially in the concrete slab requires professional assessment.

Given the extent you describe, handling it yourself isn't advisable. The fuzzy patches indicate active growth, and improper cleaning in Dubai's high humidity can aerosolize spores and spread them. The concrete may have absorbed moisture, requiring specialized drying equipment to prevent rapid regrowth. A certified inspector can use a moisture meter to determine the penetration depth and take air and surface samples to identify the mold species, which dictates the correct remediation protocol.

For a situation like this, involve your landlord immediately with documentation (photos, videos). They are obligated to address the cause (AC repair) and the resulting damage. A reputable remediation company, often with IICRC-certified technicians, will contain the area, remove the affected carpet and underlay, and treat the concrete with EPA-approved antimicrobials before ensuring it's thoroughly dry. Simply spraying bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces and doesn't address the root moisture problem. The goal is to return the moisture levels to within 10-12% to prevent recurrence, which is a constant battle in our climate.