Is my AC mold causing health issues, landlord or me to fix?« Back to Previous Page

The black specks in your vent and the symptoms you describe are classic indicators of mold contamination. The UAE's high humidity and year-round AC use create a perfect environment for mold growth inside units, where condensation accumulates. Your scratchy throat and morning congestion are common reactions to inhaling mold spores circulating from the AC.

In Dubai, the responsibility for repairs typically falls on the landlord, as maintaining the central AC system is part of the property's essential services. Mold inside the AC ductwork is their responsibility to rectify. Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, describing the visible mold and your health symptoms. They are generally obligated to address issues that affect livability and health.

For your safety, I recommend a professional inspection. A certified inspector can use a borescope to assess the internal ductwork and an air quality test to identify the spore types and concentration. This evidence is crucial; it verifies the problem for your landlord and confirms whether the species present are linked to your symptoms. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper cleaning can disturb spores and worsen airborne contamination. While waiting for a response, you can run the fan on a continuous, low setting to help reduce humidity in the ducts, but the underlying growth must be professionally remediated.