Is black mold behind wardrobe making my kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black substance behind the wardrobe is mold, and it is a very likely contributor to your children's persistent coughing. The conditions you described—a closed, air-conditioned room with high ambient humidity—are a perfect recipe for mold growth here in the UAE. The AC cools surfaces like that wall, and when humid air contacts it, condensation forms, creating the damp environment mold needs to thrive.

Black mold, particularly strains like Stachybotrys chartarum, can produce mycotoxins that are harmful when inhaled, especially for children whose respiratory systems are still developing. Symptoms commonly include chronic coughing, wheezing, throat irritation, and headaches.

In Dubai, your landlord is obligated under Law No. (26) of 2007, known as the 'Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)' law, to provide a habitable and safe property. This includes addressing environmental health hazards like significant mold infestations. You should notify them in writing immediately, detailing the issue and its suspected health impact. They are typically responsible for the remediation of the problem.

However, I must stress that a DIY approach is not advisable. Disturbing the mold can aerosolize the spores, making the situation much worse. This requires professional assessment and remediation.

We need to identify the exact species and the full extent of the growth, which is often hidden inside walls. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and moisture meters to do this, followed by professional remediation protocols to safely remove the mold and fix the moisture source.

For your family's health, I recommend you get a professional inspection urgently. Please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. We can provide a detailed report you can also use with your landlord.