Is AC mold causing our cough and is it dangerous?« Back to Previous Page

The persistent dry cough you both have is a very common reaction to mold exposure from AC systems, particularly in Dubai's climate. The constant humidity and condensation create an ideal environment for mold growth inside AC units, which then gets circulated throughout your apartment. The black speckles around the vent are a visible sign of a contamination problem that is likely more extensive inside the ductwork and the unit's evaporator coil.

While not all molds are highly toxic, the species Stachybotrys chartarum (often called "black mold") is frequently identified in water-damaged AC systems and is known to produce mycotoxins that can cause such respiratory irritation. The link between your symptoms and the visible mold growth is strong, especially since the issue has persisted for months.

You should absolutely involve your landlord immediately. According to Dubai rental regulations (RERA), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's essential services, which includes a functioning and safe air conditioning system. Merely cleaning the visible speckles is insufficient; the internal components and ducts need a professional, deep cleaning to address the root cause of the moisture and the widespread contamination.

Given the duration of the leak and your symptoms, a professional inspection and test is a prudent step. A proper assessment involves air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and concentration levels. This data is critical—it confirms the health risk, establishes a baseline to verify the effectiveness of the cleanup, and provides documented evidence should you need to escalate the matter with your landlord. The goal is not just to clean what you can see, but to measurably restore your indoor air quality to a safe level.