Could mold growth cause my children's illnesses?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the basement area of our villa. The children have been complaining about having more coughs and colds lately, which concerns me as they’ve only moved in two months ago. Could this be related to mold growth down there? What should we do to ensure their safety?
Posted by Joseph Lee
Asked on December 14, 2025 1:59 pm
Indeed, the musty smell and your children's recent symptoms could be indicative of mold growth. In dubai, it is quite common for moisture to accumulate in areas such as basements during heavy rains or even through daily humidity levels. Mold spores can proliferate when conditions are favorable – typically high humidity (over 60%) combined with a lack of proper ventilation.

The symptoms you're observing in your children—coughs and colds—are indeed consistent with exposure to mold. Allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even skin irritations can result from inhaling or coming into contact with mold spores. Considering the recent heavy rainfall, it is highly plausible that a moisture issue has led to mold growth within your villa's basement.

In response to this situation, I recommend scheduling an immediate professional inspection of the area to confirm the presence of mold and assess its extent. The regulations in the UAE emphasize the importance of addressing mold issues promptly to ensure occupant health. In dubai specifically, it is mandatory to adhere to local guidelines for remediation which can be found through your environmental health department.

To take proactive steps before a professional inspection:
• Ensure good ventilation by opening windows and using dehumidifiers if necessary.
• Avoid disturbing any visible mold areas as this can spread spores.
• Keep the affected area clean with standard cleaning products; however, avoid using bleach which may react with some types of mold.

Upon identification of mold growth, it's crucial to address the source of moisture. This might involve waterproofing measures or improving drainage systems around your villa. Saniservice, a reputable company in dubai (you can contact them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com), offers comprehensive services including mold testing and remediation.

Remember, addressing mold issues swiftly not only ensures the health of your family but also prevents potential structural damage to your villa. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent future occurrences of this nature.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 16, 2025 1:38 am