Is black mold from AC leak dangerous to stay near?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our bedroom has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, but I just pulled back the corner of the carpet near the wall and found a patch of black, fuzzy mold about the size of a dinner plate. Since last week, both my husband and I have been waking up with sore throats and stuffy noses that clear up once we leave for work. I'm really worried this is the cause. **How dangerous is this specific type of mold and should we leave the apartment until it's professionally cleaned?**
Posted by Qiang Sato
Asked on April 13, 2026 4:15 pm
Based on your description, the situation you are describing is a serious indoor environmental concern that requires immediate professional attention. The black, fuzzy growth discovered is highly likely to be a toxigenic mold, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly referred to as "black mold." This type of mold thrives on chronically wet, cellulose-rich materials like the backing of your carpet, drywall, and wood, which is precisely the environment created by a long-term AC condensate leak.

The health symptoms you and your husband are experiencing—sore throats and nasal congestion that resolve when you leave the environment—are classic indicators of exposure to mold spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). For individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems, prolonged exposure can lead to more severe respiratory issues.

In the UAE's climate, where high year-round humidity forces a near-constant reliance on AC systems, such leaks are a frequent cause of microbial amplification. The cool, damp, and dark interior of AC units and adjacent building materials creates an ideal breeding ground.

It is strongly recommended that you vacate the affected bedroom until a professional assessment and remediation can be completed. Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing the mold will aerosolize a high concentration of spores throughout your apartment.

You require a certified mold inspector to conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, and a remediation team to safely contain the area, remove the contaminated materials (carpet, underlay, potentially drywall), and hygienize the space. For immediate assistance, I advise you to contact the professional team at Saniservice. They are experts in UAE-specific mold issues and can be reached at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection and remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 14, 2026 7:19 pm