Can I clean black mold myself or call a professional?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's the black mold growing on the ceiling in our master bedroom closet here in Jumeirah. It’s been there since the humidity really spiked a couple of months back and it’s spread to about the size of a dinner plate. Is this something I can just clean with bleach myself, or do I need to call a professional company to handle it?
Posted by Dong Guo
Asked on April 5, 2026 9:00 am
Based on your description of the situation in Jumeirah, I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself and recommend you call a professional for an inspection immediately. The presence of health symptoms like persistent coughing in your children, combined with the size of the infestation (a dinner plate is significant), indicates a serious issue that requires expert handling.

While a small patch might sometimes be addressed by a homeowner, using bleach is a common misconception and is not an effective solution. Bleach only removes the surface discoloration but does not kill the mold roots (hyphae) penetrating the building material. Furthermore, improper cleaning can agitate the colony, releasing a massive amount of harmful spores into your home's air and exacerbating respiratory issues. The high humidity and constant use of air conditioning in Dubai create a perfect environment for mold growth inside walls and ceiling cavities, meaning the visible spot is often just the "tip of the iceberg."

In the UAE, professional remediation companies like Saniservice follow strict protocols based on international standards (IICRC S520). We begin with a comprehensive inspection, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the full extent of the contamination and the underlying moisture source—which is absolutely critical to prevent rapid regrowth. The remediation process involves containment of the area with negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination, safe removal of affected materials, and specialized antimicrobial treatment using products approved for use in the UAE.

Given the health risks to your family and the potential for structural damage, a professional assessment is not just recommended, it is essential. Please contact our team for a thorough inspection and a definitive solution. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 7, 2026 9:34 pm