Is AC leak causing dangerous mold in our wall?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our Jumeirah villa has been leaking a bit into the wall behind it for a couple of weeks, and now we’re seeing a few small black spots on the skirting board. My husband thinks we can just clean it, but I’m worried it’s already spread inside the wall, especially with this humidity. How urgent is it to get professional mold testing done, or are these small spots not a major health risk yet?
Posted by Pranav Mishra
Asked on March 30, 2026 3:15 am
Based on your description, this is a situation that absolutely warrants a professional inspection, and I'd advise against just cleaning the visible spots. The climate here in Dubai creates a perfect storm for mold issues, especially when there's a moisture source like an AC leak.

The small black spots on the skirting board are just the visible tip of the iceberg. The real concern is the wall cavity, which acts like a hidden incubator. The constant moisture from the leak, combined with our high ambient humidity, allows mold to proliferate deep within the drywall and insulation, often long before it becomes visible on the surface. Simply wiping the surface does nothing to address this hidden colony, and disturbing it can actually aerosolize the spores, increasing your exposure.

From a health perspective, even small, ongoing exposures can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and worsen conditions like asthma, especially in vulnerable individuals. The urgency lies in stopping the water source and assessing the full extent of the contamination.

Our standard protocol involves using moisture meters to map the dampness inside the wall and borescopes to visually inspect the cavity. This is followed by air and surface sampling to identify the species present and the concentration levels, which is crucial for determining the remediation plan. UAE regulations, particularly from Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines on indoor air quality, and proper remediation is essential for compliance and safety.

I strongly recommend you get a professional assessment immediately. Please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Addressing the leak and the hidden mold now will prevent a much larger, more costly problem down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 11:44 am