Is black mold removal urgent for child's cough??« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found behind our wardrobe in the master bedroom. We've lived in our Marina apartment for 2 years and just noticed it, probably from all the humidity lately. The patch is about the size of a dinner plate and looks really dark and speckled. How urgent is it that we get this professionally removed, like is this a call-the-landlord-today emergency or can it wait a few days for a regular appointment?
Posted by Pieter Robert
Asked on April 16, 2026 1:40 am
Yes, with children experiencing a cough, this is urgent and warrants immediate action. The presence of visible mould, especially of that size, combined with health symptoms means the issue has progressed beyond a simple cleaning task.

The humidity in Dubai, particularly in coastal areas like Marina, creates an ideal environment for mould growth, often exacerbated by air conditioning systems that can spread spores. The type of mould must be identified, as some species produce mycotoxins that can significantly aggravate respiratory conditions, especially in children. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling will aerosolize the spores and can worsen the indoor air quality, potentially intensifying the cough.

Your first step today should be to contact your landlord or building management. Under Dubai rental regulations, the structural integrity and habitability of the property are their responsibility, which includes addressing leaks and resulting mould that are not due to tenant negligence. Document the mould with clear photos and detail your children's symptoms.

While you await a professional inspection and remediation, which should be scheduled as soon as possible, keep the children out of the bedroom and ensure the area is well-ventilated. A certified mould inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and the full extent of the contamination, which is often not limited to the visible patch. Remediation involves containing the area, safely removing the contaminated materials, and addressing the underlying moisture source to prevent recurrence.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 16, 2026 1:13 pm