Is black mold making my son sick? Need to move out?« Back to Previous Page

We’ve lived in our Mirdif villa for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold spreading on the wall behind our wardrobe, probably from the last big rain. My youngest son has been having a persistent cough and itchy eyes for a couple of weeks now and it’s really starting to worry me. I’ve tried wiping it with vinegar, but it keeps coming back. Should I be calling a professional cleaning company for this, or is this something serious enough that we need to temporarily move out until it's fixed?
Posted by Gary Williams
Asked on March 21, 2026 2:11 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black mold behind your wardrobe is contributing to your son's respiratory symptoms, which are classic indicators of mold exposure. The persistent cough and itchy eyes are a significant concern, especially for a child.

The issue you're facing is a direct result of Dubai's climate. The high humidity, combined with condensation from year-round air conditioning and recent rain events, creates an ideal breeding ground for mold. The wall behind the wardrobe is a classic problem area, as restricted airflow prevents moisture from evaporating, allowing mold to thrive. Wiping with vinegar is a temporary surface fix; it does not address the moisture source or the hyphae (root structures) growing within the wall's porous materials.

For a situation involving visible spreading and health symptoms, a professional inspection is not just recommended—it is essential. DIY methods are insufficient and can inadvertently aerosolize spores, worsening the contamination. Our certified inspectors use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air quality tests to identify the full extent of the infestation and the precise moisture source.

Regarding relocation, we advise that any individual experiencing symptoms should minimize exposure. For a child, it is prudent to stay elsewhere until remediation is complete to prevent further aggravation of his health.

For a villa in Mirdif, we strongly recommend you contact a certified mold remediation company like Saniservice. Our protocols are designed to contain the area, safely remove contaminated materials, and implement engineering controls to correct the humidity issue permanently, in full compliance with UAE environmental and public health guidelines.

Please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an immediate assessment. Your family's health is the priority.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 23, 2026 5:36 am