Is mold in our basement harming my kids?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in the basement of our apartment. It's particularly noticeable when we open the windows or run the AC. My kids have been complaining of chest congestion and coughing, especially at night. Could this be mold, and is it affecting their health?
Posted by Rohit Verma
Asked on December 20, 2025 8:16 pm
The musty smell and symptoms your children are experiencing could indeed be indicative of mold presence. In the UAE context, especially post-rainfall periods like last month, it's common for water intrusion to create conditions favorable for mold growth.

Mold spores can easily proliferate in damp areas such as basements, particularly if there’s been flooding or excessive humidity. These spores are airborne and can cause respiratory issues, including coughing, congestion, and other allergic reactions—especially in children whose immune systems might be more sensitive to environmental factors.

Given the potential health risks associated with mold exposure, it's highly advisable for you to arrange a professional inspection as soon as possible. In Dubai, regulations mandate that all buildings undergo regular checks for moisture content and mold growth, particularly after significant weather events like heavy rain. However, even without such mandates, ensuring your home is safe from harmful contaminants should be a priority.

For an accurate assessment of the situation in your basement, contact professionals who specialize in mold inspection and remediation. They will perform thorough testing to identify not only if there's active mold growth but also its extent and types. The service number 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com can be used to book an appointment with certified experts in this field.

During the inspection, ensure that the professionals take samples of any suspected mold for laboratory analysis. This will not only confirm whether there's a problem but also determine the type and concentration of molds present, which is crucial for developing a remediation strategy tailored to your specific case.

Remember, if mold is detected, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. Mold can produce mycotoxins that pose serious health risks, particularly to children. Remediation should include proper cleanup procedures and addressing the source of moisture to prevent future outbreaks.

In Dubai, it's also important to ensure that any remedial work adheres to local standards and regulations to avoid further contamination or spread of spores during the process.

Taking these steps will help ensure your family’s health and safety while preventing potential damage to your property.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 22, 2025 3:37 pm