Is black mold form AC leak a DIY fix or need professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah seems to be leaking into the wall behind it, and now we’ve got a big patch of black mold spreading there. It’s been getting worse since the humidity spiked a couple of weeks ago, and I'm worried about the health risks for my family. Is this something I can tackle myself with bleach, or should I just call in a professional company for a proper remediation? If I hire someone, what’s a reasonable price range for fixing a mold problem like this in a bedroom?
Posted by Samantha Brown
Asked on March 30, 2026 4:20 am
That black mold is a significant concern and points to a serious moisture issue that needs immediate attention. In Dubai's high humidity, an AC leak creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, and the spreading patch indicates the wall cavity is likely saturated.

Health risks are real, especially for those with asthma or allergies, as this type of mold can cause persistent respiratory irritation. Bleach is not a recommended solution; it only bleaches the surface and does not kill the roots (hyphae) penetrating the porous drywall. It also fails to address the hidden moisture and mold within the wall.

This is a case for professional remediation. The process involves first fixing the AC leak at its source to stop the moisture. Then, the affected drywall must be carefully removed under containment to prevent spores from spreading throughout your apartment. All contaminated materials are discarded, the underlying structure is cleaned with specialized biocides, and the area is thoroughly dried using industrial dehumidifiers before rebuilding.

Attempting this yourself risks inadequate containment, spreading the contamination to other rooms, and leaving hidden mold to regrow. For a job of this scale in a bedroom, the cost is not trivial, as it involves leak repair, demolition, proper remediation protocols, and reconstruction. The final price is highly dependent on the extent of the damage discovered once the wall is opened. You should request a detailed, on-site assessment from a certified remediation provider to understand the full scope and get an accurate quote.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 10:57 pm