Who to call for mold inspection after toddler's illness?« Back to Previous Page

Our 3-year-old has been having a persistent cough and runny nose for the last couple of weeks, and we can't figure out why. I just moved his toy chest and found a patch of black and green mold growing on the back of it, which is against the wall in his bedroom in our villa in Jumeirah. The wall itself feels a bit damp to the touch. Who should I call for a proper mold inspection, and should I be getting my son tested for exposure?
Posted by Daniel Smith
Asked on April 1, 2026 10:05 am
The damp wall and visible mold growth, especially with your child's symptoms, warrant immediate professional attention. In Dubai, your first call should be to a certified mold inspection and indoor air quality (IAQ) specialist, not a general handyman. Look for a company that employs a certified indoor environmentalist (CIE) or similar qualification, as they are trained to identify moisture sources and contamination levels, not just wipe away visible growth.

The high humidity here, combined with air conditioning creating cold surfaces, leads to condensation within walls – a prime environment for mold. A proper inspection involves using moisture meters, thermal imaging to find hidden dampness, and air or surface sampling sent to an accredited microbiology lab for analysis. This identifies the mold species and spore concentration, which is critical information for your pediatrician.

Regarding your son, schedule a visit with his doctor and inform them of the mold discovery. They can assess if his symptoms are allergy-related or require further investigation. The lab report from the inspection will be valuable for them. For your villa, ensure the company provides a detailed report outlining the moisture source, the extent of contamination, and a remediation protocol. This is a verifiable standard of care in the UAE.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 2, 2026 1:49 pm