Is the AC mold causing our sickness and need repair?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our master bedroom has been leaking a little for the past couple of months, and now I’ve spotted this black, fuzzy patch on the wall behind the wardrobe. Lately, my husband and I have been waking up with really stuffy heads and sore throats that clear up a few hours after we leave for work. Is this likely a mold issue and should we be pushing our landlord for a full AC repair and cleanup, or is just wiping it down ourselves enough?
Posted by David Young
Asked on April 2, 2026 12:37 pm
Based on your description, this is a classic case of mold-related health symptoms caused by a chronic AC leak. The black, fuzzy patch is almost certainly active microbial growth, likely Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) or Aspergillus, both common in Dubai's humid climate. Your symptoms—morning sinus congestion, headaches, and sore throats that resolve when you leave the contaminated environment—are textbook indicators of exposure to mycotoxins and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) released by mold colonies.

The AC leak provides the constant moisture necessary for mold proliferation, while the cool, dark space behind the wardrobe creates an ideal microclimate. Simply wiping the visible patch is a severe health risk and completely insufficient. Disturbing the colony without proper containment and air filtration will aerosolize spores, spreading contamination throughout your bedroom and potentially the entire AC duct system. This can lead to a significant amplification of your exposure and health risks.

Under UAE tenancy law, specifically Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and essential services, which includes the functional repair of the AC system and the remediation of any resultant damage, such as mold. You should formally notify your landlord in writing of the issue and request immediate professional AC repair and a certified mold inspection.

Given the confirmed health symptoms and visible growth, I strongly recommend a professional assessment. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice use thermal imaging to identify the full extent of moisture intrusion and air sampling to quantify spore levels for your health and to provide documented evidence for your landlord. Do not attempt to clean this yourself. For immediate assistance, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 7:17 pm