Could mold be causing our health issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the closet in our bedroom, and it’s getting stronger. My daughter has had a persistent cough since we moved to this building two years ago, and my son complains of having itchy eyes whenever he stays in that room. Could these be symptoms of mold exposure? What should I do about it?
Posted by Ashok Kapoor
Asked on February 27, 2026 11:03 am
Could mold be causing our health issues? It is entirely plausible that the symptoms your family has been experiencing could be related to mold exposure. Mold growth can occur rapidly after water intrusion, such as from a leak or high humidity, which seems to have happened when it rained last month.

In Dubai, we often experience fluctuations in weather conditions, and this can lead to moisture accumulation within structures. The musty smell you're noticing is a common indicator of mold presence, especially if it's getting stronger over time. Mold spores can easily spread through air currents or water runoff, affecting various areas of the building.

The symptoms your daughter has been experiencing - a persistent cough - and your son’s itchy eyes are indeed concerning signs that could be linked to indoor mold exposure. These symptoms align with those often reported by individuals exposed to mold, such as respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and eye irritation.

Given these circumstances, a professional inspection would be highly recommended. In the UAE, especially in Dubai, regulations like the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) require proper management of indoor air quality and control of moisture levels within buildings. However, it's important to note that local building codes may not explicitly mandate mold testing, but they do emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy environment.

To proceed with an inspection, you could call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for immediate assistance. These professionals can conduct thorough assessments and provide recommendations based on their findings. They will use advanced tools like moisture meters and air quality monitors to pinpoint the source of mold growth.

While waiting for an inspection, there are a few steps you can take to mitigate the situation:

1. Ensure proper ventilation in affected areas.
2. Use dehumidifiers if humidity levels exceed 60%.
3. Regularly clean and dry any moisture-prone surfaces like shower curtains or carpets.
4. Seal gaps where water could enter, such as around pipes or windows.

Remember that mold remediation should be handled by trained professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness. Improper cleanup can spread spores further, potentially worsening the situation. Therefore, addressing this issue promptly is crucial for your family's health and well-being in your new home.

In Dubai’s climate, it's not uncommon to encounter such issues, particularly if the building wasn't properly sealed or insulated against moisture intrusion. Taking proactive measures now will help prevent more severe mold growth in the future.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 1, 2026 12:20 pm