How to properly inspect for mold after AC and leak issues?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our villa in Jumeirah 3 has been constantly running and I keep finding these small black spots along the edges of the bedroom ceiling. We had a bit of a water leak from the upstairs bathroom a couple of months back that was fixed, but I'm worried the humidity has caused mold to grow inside the walls or the AC ducts. What's the best way to get a proper inspection done to find the source and make sure it doesn't come back after treatment?
Posted by Keiko Dang
Asked on April 8, 2026 2:50 am
A proper mold inspection starts with identifying the moisture source, as mold cannot be addressed without first stopping the water. In your case, the past leak and constant AC use in Dubai's humidity are classic culprits. The black spots on the ceiling are a strong visual indicator, but the main colony could be hidden inside the wall cavity or the AC ductwork.

For a situation with a prior leak, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They will use a combination of tools you cannot access, such as a borescope to see inside walls and moisture meters to detect dampness you can't feel. Air and surface sampling are often part of a thorough investigation; these samples are sent to an accredited microbiology lab to identify the specific mold types and concentrations, which dictates the correct remediation protocol.

A proper inspector will provide a detailed report mapping the affected areas and identifying the exact moisture problem. This is critical because simply wiping away visible spots without addressing the hidden source or the AC unit itself guarantees it will return. In Dubai, where AC systems are a primary vector for spreading spores, the inspection must include the ductwork and evaporator coil. The goal is a full diagnosis, not just a surface-level look.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 1:18 pm