Found mold behind toy chest, what's first inspection step?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month, especially after they've been playing in the carpeted bedroom. I just pulled their toy chest away from the wall and found a patch of black and greenish mold hiding behind it. I'm really worried about their health. What is the first step I should take to get a proper mold inspection done here, and can you recommend any certified companies?
Posted by Majid Bin Rashid
Asked on March 24, 2026 11:05 pm
Based on your description, the first step is to immediately isolate the affected area to prevent cross-contamination. Do not attempt to clean or disturb the mold, as this will aerosolize the spores and significantly increase your children's exposure, likely exacerbating their respiratory symptoms.

Given the visible growth and the correlated health effects, a professional inspection is not just recommended but essential. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold, what you see is often just the tip of the iceberg. The mold behind the toy chest is a symptom of a moisture issue, which could be due to condensation from the AC unit, a minor plumbing leak in the wall, or simply insufficient ventilation in that corner. A certified inspector will not only identify the type and extent of the contamination but, crucially, use specialized equipment like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to locate the source of the moisture. Without eliminating the source, any cleaning will be temporary.

The inspection process in the UAE should adhere to international standards (like IICRC S520) and involve both visual assessment and air quality sampling to determine spore counts throughout the property, which is critical for understanding the impact on your indoor air and your children's health.

For a certified and comprehensive inspection and remediation plan, I strongly recommend contacting Saniservice. They are experts in dealing with mold issues specific to the Gulf region. You can reach their specialists for an immediate consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 26, 2026 8:42 am