Could mold under our stairs be making us sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold under your stairs is very likely the cause of your family's persistent coughs and headaches. The symptoms you describe – respiratory irritation and headaches – are a classic response to prolonged exposure to mold spores in an enclosed space. The damp, earthy smell confirms active microbial growth.

In Dubai's climate, enclosed storage areas are highly susceptible to mold. Humidity from the air condenses in poorly ventilated spaces, especially when they are adjacent to cooler, air-conditioned rooms. This creates the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive on organic materials like cotton, wool, and leather.

You should consider this a serious indoor air quality issue. Stop using the cupboard immediately and isolate the affected items by sealing them in plastic bags to prevent the spores from spreading throughout your home's air. Do not attempt to clean them yourself, as disturbing the mold will aerosolize a high concentration of spores.

For a situation of this scale with health symptoms already present, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can identify the moisture source (often a small condensation leak or lack of ventilation), assess the extent of the growth inside the wall or under the flooring, and take air samples to identify the spore types and concentration levels. This diagnostic approach is crucial for determining the correct remediation strategy to make your home safe again.