Who to call for mold inspection and what to expect?« Back to Previous Page

You should contact a certified indoor environmental professional (IEP) or a company with its own accredited microbiology lab for a proper inspection. Look for providers who follow the IICRC S520 mold remediation standard, as this is the leading international guideline for proper assessment and handling.

For your specific situation, the wall facing the outside is a classic trouble spot in Dubai. The extreme outdoor heat meeting your air-conditioned interior wall creates significant condensation inside the wall cavity, providing the constant moisture mold needs to grow. The recent humidity has only exacerbated this effect.

A proper inspection should start with a visual assessment to identify the source of moisture. The inspector will then use specialized equipment, such as a moisture meter and a thermal imaging camera, to map the extent of water intrusion within the wall that isn't visible to the naked eye. They should also conduct air and surface sampling. Crucially, these samples must be sent to an independent, accredited lab for analysis to identify the specific mold species present and their concentration levels. This lab report is essential, as it determines the actual health risk and the required scope of any remediation work.

The stuffy noses you're experiencing are a common reaction to mold exposure, confirming the need for a professional assessment. Be wary of any inspector who immediately recommends a costly remediation without first providing verifiable, lab-based evidence of the problem. A credible report will detail the types of mold found and their quantities, allowing you to make an informed decision.