Should I get my damp closet inspected for mold immediately?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet in our Jumeirah Park villa always feels damp, even when the AC is running. I pulled out some winter clothes I stored a few months ago and found several jackets with dark greenish spots on them. We’ve been waking up with stuffy noses for a while but just made the connection. Is this something I need to get inspected immediately, or can it wait a few weeks?
Posted by Jose Richard
Asked on April 15, 2026 2:00 pm
Yes, you should get that inspected immediately. The combination of visible mould on belongings and recurring health symptoms like stuffy noses indicates an active problem that will worsen without intervention. In Dubai's climate, a consistently damp closet points to a moisture source that needs to be identified and resolved.

The issue is likely due to one of two common causes in UAE villas. The first is condensation from an AC supply vent that is too close to or directly facing the closet, creating a cold spot where moisture condenses. The second, and more serious, possibility is a small leak in a pipe within the wall or from the roof/deck above, which the AC is then constantly trying to dry out.

Do not wait a few weeks. The mould is already established and releasing spores, which is likely the cause of your morning congestion. The growth will continue to spread to other contents and the building materials themselves, like the drywall or backing board, making remediation more involved and costly.

For a proper inspection, look for a provider that uses a borescope to look inside wall cavities for hidden growth and a moisture meter to quantify the dampness in the walls and floor. A surface swab or tape-lift sample sent to a microbiology lab will identify the species, which helps in assessing potential health risks and determining the correct remediation protocol. In the meantime, keep the closet door closed to minimize spore transfer into your bedroom and consider using a portable dehumidifier in the room.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 18, 2026 7:24 am