Is mold causing our coughs and sinus headaches?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month, and I've started getting awful sinus headaches, especially after being at home all day. I finally pulled our sofa away from the wall in our Jumeirah Park villa and found a patch of black spots in the corner behind it. The room has felt damp since the last round of heavy humidity. Could this mold be the cause of our symptoms, and how do I find a reliable inspector to test it?
Posted by Antonio Janssen
Asked on April 30, 2026 3:30 am
Yes, the mold you found is very likely contributing to your family's symptoms. The persistent coughs and sinus headaches you describe are classic reactions to mold exposure, particularly in a humid climate like Dubai's. The damp corner behind your sofa is a textbook breeding ground; humidity condenses on cooler exterior walls, and furniture traps the moisture, allowing mold to flourish.

For a reliable inspection in Dubai, avoid companies that offer free inspections tied to remediation sales. Look for an independent inspector who provides a clear, written assessment and lab analysis. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it should include moisture mapping to find the source of the dampness and air/surface sampling sent to an accredited microbiology lab. The lab report should identify the specific mold species present, which is crucial for understanding the health risk and planning an effective remediation.

You can verify an inspector's credibility by asking for their certification (like from IICRC or IAQA) and if their lab is Dubai Accreditation Centre (DAC) accredited. The most trustworthy providers will prioritize the diagnostic process first, giving you a factual report to make an informed decision on next steps.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 1, 2026 12:30 am