Mold behind wardrobe causing kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop since we got back from the summer break, and I’ve just found patches of black mold behind their bedroom wardrobe, which is on an outside wall in our villa in Jumeirah. The room always feels damp, even with the AC running. Could this mold be the cause of their coughs, and who should I call to properly fix this for good?
Posted by Jose Ferrari
Asked on May 4, 2026 10:50 am
Yes, the mold behind the wardrobe is very likely the cause of their persistent coughs. In Dubai's climate, exterior villa walls are prone to condensation from the extreme outdoor heat meeting cooled interior surfaces, creating a perpetually damp environment ideal for mold growth. This hidden moisture source allows mold colonies to thrive and release spores into the bedroom air, which are a common irritant causing respiratory issues like chronic coughing, especially in children.

You should first call a professional mold inspection company to assess the full extent. A proper inspection uses moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the dampness source, and air or surface sampling sent to an accredited microbiology lab (like ours) identifies the mold species and concentration. This diagnosis is critical, as it determines the required remediation protocol.

For remediation, you need a certified mold remediation specialist, not a general handyman. They will contain the area, safely remove the moldy materials, address the underlying moisture issue (often improving wall insulation or ventilation), and use HEPA filtration to clean the air. Simply wiping the visible patch won't solve the problem; the spores are airborne and the root cause must be fixed. After remediation, request post-clearance testing to verify the air quality is safe before the children re-occupy the room.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 6, 2026 10:37 pm