Could mold behind sofa be making my family sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the black mold behind your sofa is very likely the cause of your family's persistent coughing and headaches. This is a common scenario in Dubai apartments, where hidden AC condensation leaks create a perfect breeding ground for mold in dark, undisturbed areas like behind furniture.

The constant humidity and year-round AC use in Deira mean condensation leaks are frequent. The mold you found is releasing spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) into your air, which are known irritants that cause the exact symptoms you describe—respiratory issues like coughing and sinus congestion, as well as headaches and fatigue.

You should arrange for a professional mold inspection. DIY cleaning is not advised for a patch that size, as disturbing it will release a massive amount of spores. A certified inspector can identify the exact moisture source (likely the AC unit or a drain line) and test the mold to determine the species, as some types are more problematic than others. In the UAE, remediation companies should follow standards like the IICRC S520 for proper containment and removal.

Until help arrives, improve ventilation in the room by opening windows if possible and run a dehumidifier. Keep everyone, especially the children, out of that room as much as possible. The good news is that once the moisture source is repaired and the mold is properly remediated, your family's symptoms should subside.