Black mold in closet causing cough, who to call?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold in a closet, especially in an older Deira building, is a legitimate health concern and a likely cause of the coughing. The UAE's high humidity, combined with poor air circulation behind clothes, creates a perfect environment for mold growth.

For safety, start by moving the clothes and isolating the area. Do not attempt to scrub it yourself, as this can aerosolize harmful spores. A HEPA air purifier in the room can help reduce airborne particles temporarily. The key is to address the moisture source; this is often condensation from an exterior wall or a hidden leak.

You need a professional mold inspection. In Dubai, look for a company with certified mold assessors who use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the water source, not just a cleaning service. They should provide a detailed report with lab analysis to identify the mold species, which dictates the remediation protocol. This evidence-based approach is what separates a proper diagnosis from a superficial treatment. For a case involving health symptoms, this diagnostic step is non-negotiable.

The remediation process should follow IICRC standards and may involve controlled removal, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. Ultimately, the company must fix the underlying dampness to prevent recurrence. While many general maintenance companies offer cleaning, for health-related cases, a specialist with a microbiology lab for analysis is the recommended first call.