Could musty odor be from mold growth?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty odor starting to linger in the corners of our living room. It's particularly noticeable when we open the windows or run the AC. My kids have been complaining about coughing more than usual, and I’m worried it might be related to this smell. Could this be a sign of mold growth, or is there something else causing these musty odors?
Posted by Megan Jones
Asked on December 14, 2025 5:38 am
Could musty odor be from mold growth? Yes, it definitely could. Mold growth is a common cause of musty odors, especially after periods of high humidity or following water intrusion events such as rainfall. In the UAE context, particularly in Dubai, we frequently see cases where musty odors are linked to mold colonies forming within buildings.

Mold thrives in damp environments, and given your description of noticing a musty odor after rain last month and when opening windows or running AC, it's highly probable that there might be some hidden sources of moisture allowing mold to grow. This could manifest as visible signs like discoloration on walls, ceilings, or floors, or you may find patches of green, black, or brownish mold in corners, behind furniture, or near leaks.

The musty odor can also be associated with other health issues for your kids, such as increased coughing. Exposure to mold spores can trigger respiratory symptoms and exacerbate conditions like asthma. Therefore, it's crucial not to ignore the presence of these odors or visible signs of mold.

Given the UAE’s climatic conditions which include periods of high humidity in certain months, professional inspection is highly recommended. Our company, Saniservice, offers comprehensive environmental inspections that can pinpoint any hidden moisture sources and areas where mold might be growing. We use state-of-the-art equipment such as moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and air quality testing devices to ensure a thorough assessment.

For prompt action, you could call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Early detection can prevent further damage and health concerns associated with mold exposure. Moreover, regular maintenance of your HVAC systems, ensuring proper drainage around the building, and addressing any leaks immediately are key preventive measures to avoid such issues in the future.

Remember, while DIY solutions like using dehumidifiers or air purifiers might help mitigate some symptoms temporarily, a professional inspection is essential for long-term resolution. It's always better to act on these signs now rather than waiting until more extensive damage occurs.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 15, 2025 10:30 pm