Black mold behind wardrobe causing coughs, clean or call pro?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing more than usual, and I’ve just found a patch of black spots behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom, which is always cold from the AC. We’ve lived in this Jumeirah villa for about five years and never had this issue before. Is this something I can clean myself with bleach, or do I need to call a professional mold inspection company to check for a bigger problem?
Posted by Christopher Johnson
Asked on May 2, 2026 11:15 am
That black spot pattern and the persistent cough are strong indicators you should get a professional inspection, not just a DIY clean. In Dubai's climate, visible mould is often just the tip of the iceberg; the real issue is the hidden moisture source feeding it. The constant cold from your AC unit against the villa's warm, humid air creates massive condensation inside your walls, which is an ideal environment for mould to spread unseen.

Cleaning the surface with bleach is not recommended. It may temporarily remove the colour but often fails to kill the root structure of the mould, and more importantly, it doesn't address the moisture problem. Disturbing it without proper containment could also release a high concentration of spores into your home's air, potentially worsening your kids' respiratory symptoms.

Given the symptoms and the location, a professional inspection is the prudent step. They use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to find the condensation source and the full extent of the growth behind the wardrobe and within the wall cavity. A reputable inspector will provide a detailed report with findings and a scope for remediation, which should be your next step to resolve the underlying issue. For a science-backed approach, look for a company that can provide before-and-after lab testing to verify the species and confirm the environment is returned to a healthy state.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 2, 2026 8:39 pm