Is black mold from AC leak causing our cough?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last couple of weeks and I just pulled back the corner of the carpet and found a patch of black mold underneath. Since then, my husband and I have both had this constant stuffy nose and dry cough that won't go away, especially in the mornings. Is this kind of mold common in Dubai apartments and how urgently do we need to get it professionally cleaned?
Posted by Daniel Miller
Asked on April 1, 2026 11:10 pm
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black mold growth from the AC leak is the cause of your persistent respiratory symptoms. The constant stuffy nose and dry cough, particularly pronounced in the mornings after prolonged exposure in the bedroom, are classic indicators of mold-related illness. The species you describe is likely Cladosporium or Stachybotrys chartarum (often referred to as "black mold"), both of which are unfortunately common in Dubai due to our climate.

The high humidity, combined with condensation from year-round air conditioning use, creates an ideal environment for mold proliferation. A leaking AC unit is a frequent source of such moisture intrusion, allowing mold to thrive unseen within walls, under carpets, and in ceiling cavities.

This situation requires urgent professional attention. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing the mold can release a high concentration of spores and mycotoxins into the air, exacerbating your symptoms and contaminating other areas of your home. UAE regulations, particularly from Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines for indoor air quality and mold remediation to protect occupant health.

A certified professional inspection is critical. It will identify the exact species, the extent of the contamination (which is almost always larger than the visible patch), and the source of the moisture. Remediation involves containing the area, using HEPA filtration to purify the air, safely removing contaminated materials like the carpet and underlay, and treating the subfloor. Finally, the AC leak must be repaired by a certified HVAC technician to prevent recurrence.

For a comprehensive inspection and certified remediation to Dubai Municipality standards, I strongly recommend you contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment immediately.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 3, 2026 8:55 am