Mold in closet from AC leak: professional cost and DIY?« Back to Previous Page

That black mold growth from a chronic AC leak is a serious concern, both for your health and the building's integrity. The constant high humidity in Dubai provides an ideal environment for mold to thrive, especially in enclosed spaces like closets where air circulation is poor.

For a small, contained area, professional remediation typically involves isolating the space, removing contaminated porous materials (like damaged drywall or insulation), HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. The final cost is highly variable and depends entirely on the extent of the hidden damage. The leak may have soaked into the wall structure behind the visible surface, significantly increasing the scope of work. You should request an on-site assessment from a company with a microbiology background to get an accurate quote; they can use moisture meters and borescopes to see behind the walls.

DIY is risky and not recommended here. Store-bought cleaners like bleach only remove surface discoloration and do not address the root moisture problem or the hyphae (roots) growing within the porous wall. Improper cleaning can aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination throughout your home. Given the leak has been ongoing for months and has affected stored fabrics, the infiltration is likely deeper than it appears.

The necessary first step is to stop the leak by having your AC unit professionally serviced. Until the source of moisture is eliminated, any cleaning or remediation will be temporary. For health safety and to prevent structural damage, a professional inspection is strongly advised to determine the full extent and recommend the correct remediation protocol.