Is AC mold in my Dubai apartment dangerous for my toddler?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, but now we're seeing these small black spots on the wall behind the wardrobe. My husband thinks it's mold and our toddler has had a runny nose for ages. Is this something I need to report to my landlord to fix, or is it my responsibility to clean it myself?
Posted by Layla Abbas
Asked on April 16, 2026 5:15 am
The situation you've described in your Jumeirah Village Circle apartment is a serious concern, particularly with a toddler in the home. The combination of a leaking AC unit and the appearance of black spots is a classic indicator of a mold colony, likely facilitated by the high humidity and condensation inherent to Dubai's climate. Year-round AC use, if the system is not properly maintained, creates the perfect environment for mold growth within the unit and on surrounding surfaces.

The health implications for a toddler can be significant. Infants and young children are more vulnerable to mold exposure, which can irritate the respiratory system. A persistent runny nose, coughing, wheezing, or eye irritation are common symptoms. While not all mold is toxigenic, the presence of Stachybotrys chartarum (often referred to as "black mold") or other species can provoke allergic reactions and exacerbate asthma.

This is absolutely a matter to report to your landlord immediately. According to UAE rental law, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and essential services, which includes fixing a faulty AC unit that is causing water damage and mold growth. Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the colony without proper containment can aerosolize the spores, drastically increasing the airborne concentration your family breathes.

A professional inspection is crucial. We would conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, assess the extent of the contamination behind the wardrobe, and provide a certified report for your landlord. This evidence is key to ensuring the problem is remediated correctly, not just cosmetically cleaned. For your family's health, I strongly recommend you contact a certified specialist. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 17, 2026 2:03 pm