Is black mold causing our health issues?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom in our Jumeirah villa has had a constant damp smell since the heavy rains a couple of months ago. I’ve been waking up with a stuffy nose and itchy eyes every morning, and my husband’s cough just won’t go away. I just pulled the wardrobe away from the wall and found a bunch of black spots in the corner behind it. Is this black mold, and could it really be causing these health issues we’re having?
Posted by Aiko Ito
Asked on April 1, 2026 6:43 pm
Based on your description, the black spots you found behind the wardrobe are highly likely to be mold, and the health symptoms you and your husband are experiencing are consistent with mold exposure. The persistent stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and non-resolving cough are classic allergic responses to mold spores, which become airborne and are inhaled during sleep.

The recent heavy rains in Dubai are a primary catalyst. Moisture intrusion, often through minor, undetected leaks in the villa's envelope or from condensation due to our high humidity levels, becomes trapped behind furniture. This creates a perfect microenvironment for mold growth, especially when combined with the constant cooling from AC units, which can cause further condensation on cooler wall surfaces.

In the UAE, addressing this promptly is critical. While surface cleaning with a bleach solution is a common DIY approach, it is insufficient and can aerosolize spores, worsening the problem. For a suspected infestation of this nature, a professional inspection is mandatory. Our certified inspectors use moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and air/oceanic sampling to identify the exact species (e.g., the notorious Stachybotrys chartarum, or "black mold") and the full extent of the contamination, which is often hidden within wall cavities.

Proper remediation involves containment of the area, HEPA filtration, and specialized antimicrobial treatments to ensure complete spore elimination and prevent recurrence, in line with Dubai Municipality's strict hygiene and public health standards.

For a thorough assessment and a permanent solution to safeguard your health and property, I strongly recommend you contact our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 2:54 am