Mold in storage causing coughs: who to inspect?« Back to Previous Page

That damp, earthy smell and visible spots strongly suggest active mold growth, which is a very plausible cause for the persistent coughing, especially in children. The combination of Dubai's high humidity and a confined, dark storage space creates an ideal environment for mold, particularly after a long, vacant summer when AC was off and moisture built up.

For a situation involving both visible growth and health symptoms, a professional inspection is the right next step. You should call a certified mold inspector, not just a general cleaning company. A proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it includes measuring moisture levels in the walls and air, and most importantly, taking air and surface samples for lab analysis to identify the exact mold types and concentrations. This scientific report is crucial—it confirms the problem's severity and guides the specific remediation plan needed.

In Dubai, the intense AC use can sometimes spread mold spores from a source like this throughout the home's air, which is likely why your children are affected even if the storage area is closed off. Before calling, you can open windows to ventilate the area if possible, but avoid disturbing the mold yourself by brushing or cleaning the spotted items, as this will release more spores.

When selecting an inspector, ask if they are certified (e.g., by IICRC or equivalent) and if their assessment includes detailed lab reporting from a third-party microbiology lab. This ensures the results are unbiased and actionable. The remediation company you choose later should use this report to outline a precise containment and removal protocol.