Should I call a professional for AC leak black mold?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our villa in Jumeirah has been leaking a bit into the wall, and now we're seeing these small black spots spreading near the ceiling in the bedroom. I tried wiping it with vinegar, but it just came back darker a few days later. With this humidity, am I making it worse by trying to handle it myself, or should I just call a professional mold inspection company right away?
Posted by Hendrik Sanchez
Asked on April 10, 2026 3:57 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described—an AC leak, recurring black spots, and a failed DIY cleaning attempt with vinegar—you absolutely should call a professional mold inspection company immediately. The climate in Dubai, characterized by extreme heat and high humidity, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold. When an AC unit leaks, it provides the constant moisture source mold needs to thrive inside your wall cavities, a situation that simple surface cleaning cannot address.

Your attempt with vinegar likely only temporarily bleached the visible surface mold, while the active colony continued to grow within the damp drywall and insulation. This is why it returned darker and potentially more widespread. Disturbing mold through wiping can also inadvertently release spores into the air, exacerbating the contamination and potentially affecting your indoor air quality.

In the UAE, proper mold remediation is not just about cleaning; it involves a scientific process. A certified professional will first conduct a comprehensive inspection, often using tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the full extent of the moisture intrusion and hidden mold growth behind the walls. Air and surface sampling may be performed to identify the species and concentration, which is critical for determining the correct remediation protocol. This process adheres to international standards like the IICRC S520, which is considered best practice.

For a situation involving an ongoing leak and structural penetration, a professional assessment is non-negotiable. I strongly recommend you cease DIY efforts and contact Saniservice. Their certified experts can provide a thorough inspection, precise testing, and a remediation plan to safely resolve the issue and protect your villa. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 11, 2026 5:45 pm