Should I treat mold myself or hire professionals?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in the basement of my apartment, which is quite damp despite having a dehumidifier. My family has also been experiencing more coughing lately, and I’m worried it might be due to mold. Should I hire professionals to inspect and treat the mold, or are there affordable DIY solutions available?
Posted by Ewa Durand
Asked on February 6, 2026 4:57 am
Dealing with mold is a serious matter that should be handled with care. I've been seeing an increase in mold-related concerns since the recent heavy rains in Dubai and across the UAE. Given your situation, it might seem like treating the mold yourself could save you some money, but there are several reasons why hiring professionals can be more effective and safer.

Firstly, in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we have specific regulations concerning mold inspection and remediation. The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) has guidelines that must be followed to ensure safety and compliance. Non-compliance could result in hefty fines or even legal action against property owners if health risks are ignored.

The smell of dampness you're noticing is a strong indicator of mold growth, especially given the damp conditions despite having a dehumidifier. This means there might be areas that your dehumidifier isn't reaching or effectively controlling. Mold can grow in places where moisture levels exceed 70%, and it often thrives behind walls, under carpets, and in hard-to-reach corners like your basement.

Hiring professionals for mold inspection is highly recommended because they have the expertise to identify and assess the extent of mold growth using specialized equipment such as thermal imaging cameras. They can also provide a detailed report on the source of moisture and suggest long-term solutions to prevent future outbreaks, which might include better ventilation or structural repairs if necessary.

Moreover, dealing with mold involves safety measures that amateurs may overlook. Mold remediation requires wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, gloves, and protective clothing. Professionals are trained in handling hazardous molds like Stachybotrys chartarum, which can release toxins into the air. Inhaling these spores can cause serious health issues including respiratory problems and allergic reactions.

If your family has been experiencing more coughing lately, it's possible that the mold could be contributing to their symptoms. Professional remediation ensures not only the removal of visible mold but also the cleaning or replacement of affected materials thoroughly, thus reducing exposure risks.

For those in Dubai, I strongly recommend reaching out to a professional company like Saniservice. Their contact details are 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or by email at hello@saniservice.com. They can provide a free consultation and tailor their services according to your specific needs.

In summary, while DIY methods might seem appealing for cost savings, professional mold remediation offers superior results in terms of safety, effectiveness, and long-term health benefits. Don't wait until the situation worsens; act now to ensure a healthy living environment for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 7, 2026 11:45 pm