Is the mold in my apartment causing health issues?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the last month and my husband's allergies are going crazy, and I'm starting to wonder if it's our apartment. I noticed some black spots behind our bedroom wardrobe, which is on the wall facing the building's pool, and the room always feels damp. We're in an older building in Jumeirah and I'm really worried about their health. What should I look for to confirm it's mold and can you recommend a reliable company that does proper mold inspection and testing?
Posted by Huda Haddad
Asked on May 5, 2026 3:35 pm
The symptoms you describe—persistent coughing and aggravated allergies—are commonly associated with mold exposure, especially in a damp environment with visible growth. The black spots behind the wardrobe and the constant damp feeling are strong indicators. In Dubai's climate, walls facing pools or other water features are highly susceptible to condensation and hidden mold growth due to the constant humidity and year-round AC use creating temperature differentials.

For a case like this, a visual inspection alone is insufficient. You need to identify the mold type and its source. A proper inspection involves three key steps: a moisture meter reading on that wall to find the dampness source, an air quality test to compare spore counts indoors versus outdoors, and a tape lift sample of the black spots sent to a microbiology lab for species identification. This is crucial because some species, like Aspergillus, are more strongly linked to respiratory issues.

Given your family's health symptoms and the visible signs, a professional assessment is strongly recommended. Look for a provider that conducts a comprehensive diagnosis, not just a quick look. They should explain the process clearly, use calibrated moisture meters, and most importantly, provide a detailed report with lab results from an accredited microbiology facility. This evidence-based approach is what separates a legitimate inspection from a superficial one and will give you the answers you need to protect your family's health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 6, 2026 6:48 pm