Is black mold behind furniture dangerous for my family?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I just pulled out a box from the back of our storage room in Jumeirah. The entire wall behind it is covered in this black, fuzzy patch. I’ve been getting headaches too. How dangerous is this and who should I call to get it properly removed and checked?
Posted by Mary Robinson
Asked on April 23, 2026 12:40 pm
Black mold behind furniture can be dangerous, particularly for children and individuals with respiratory sensitivities. The symptoms you describe—persistent coughing and headaches—are common reactions to prolonged mold spore exposure. In Dubai’s humid climate, this type of hidden growth is not uncommon, as condensation forms on cooler walls behind large items, creating a perfect environment for mold.

You should contact a professional indoor health company for an inspection and remediation. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize a massive number of spores, significantly worsening your indoor air quality and your family's exposure. A proper remediation involves isolating the area, using HEPA filtration to capture spores, and physically removing the contaminated material.

For verification, ensure the company you hire conducts a lab analysis to identify the mold species. This step is crucial, as the term "black mold" is often used for Stachybotrys, which can produce mycotoxins, but many other black-colored molds are less harmful. The right professional will also perform post-remediation verification testing to confirm the space is safe before you re-occupy it. Look for providers with certifications from bodies like the IICRC to ensure they follow global standards adapted for the UAE environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 24, 2026 7:25 pm