How urgent is fixing black mold with kids coughing?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past couple of weeks and I just found a patch of black mold spreading from behind the wardrobe in their bedroom, probably from a hidden leak. The apartment is in Jumeirah Village Circle and the humidity has been awful lately. How urgent is it that I force my landlord to fix this, like within 24 hours urgent, or can it wait for a maintenance request next week?
Posted by Noor Nasser
Asked on April 2, 2026 2:27 am
Based on the situation you've described, this is an extremely urgent matter that requires immediate action, not next week. Your children's persistent cough is a significant red flag for potential health impacts from mycotoxin exposure, commonly associated with Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold).

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the high ambient humidity in JVC creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, especially when combined with a hidden leak. The mold colony behind the wardrobe is likely just the visible tip of a much larger problem within the wall cavity.

Legally, your landlord is obligated under Dubai rental law to provide a habitable and safe living environment. A mold infestation of this nature, especially with associated health symptoms, constitutes a serious breach of this obligation. You should formally notify them in writing (email is best for a paper trail) and demand immediate remediation. Do not wait for a standard maintenance cycle.

However, a simple "fix" by a handyman is insufficient. This requires a professional mold inspection to assess the full extent of the contamination, identify the moisture source, and prescribe a proper remediation protocol. Improper cleaning can aerosolize the spores, worsening the air quality and your kids' symptoms.

For your family's health, I strongly recommend you get a professional assessment immediately. Our certified inspectors use thermal imaging and borescopes to find hidden moisture and mold. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an emergency inspection. Do not delay.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 10:58 pm