Should I worry about mold affecting my kids' health?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet. My kids have been complaining of persistent coughs and watery eyes, and it’s making me really worried about mold or mildew. We’ve lived here for 2 years, so why are we just noticing this now? Should I be concerned about their health, and what should I do next?
Posted by Michel Wagner
Asked on January 1, 2026 10:17 am
Absolutely, you should be concerned about mold affecting your kids' health. In the UAE, particularly in areas like Dubai where we experience occasional heavy rains, mold growth can pose significant health risks, especially to young children who are more susceptible due to their developing immune systems.

Firstly, let's address why you might only just notice the issue now after living here for two years. Environmental conditions, such as humidity levels and the presence of water damage from recent rain, can trigger mold growth even in seemingly well-maintained properties. It’s common that mold spores are present but dormant until favorable conditions arise.

The musty smell you've detected is a telltale sign of microbial growth, typically caused by fungi like Aspergillus or Penicillium species. These molds produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and mycotoxins which can irritate the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as persistent coughing, watery eyes, and other allergic reactions that your children are experiencing.

In Dubai, UAE-specific regulations mandate proper mold management practices in residential buildings. According to the Building Control Regulations 2015 (UAE), any property that has been affected by water damage must undergo a thorough inspection for mold before it can be reoccupied or sold. Given the current situation, you should consider having your home inspected immediately.

Engaging a professional environmental inspection and remediation company like Saniservice is highly recommended. They have the expertise to perform comprehensive testing and identify the extent of any mold growth. Based on their findings, they will provide a detailed report and recommend appropriate remedial actions, which could include decontamination procedures or structural changes if necessary.

Don't wait; act promptly. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. In the meantime, keep your home well-ventilated and monitor any worsening symptoms in your children closely. Remember that early detection and proper remediation are crucial to safeguarding their health.

Stay vigilant and proactive about addressing this issue; it's worth investing in a thorough assessment to ensure both you and your family's wellbeing.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 3, 2026 9:41 am