Black mold in Dubai home: call maintenance or specialist?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found spreading along the baseboard in our master bedroom closet. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, probably because I was storing some winter clothes in there. The wall actually feels a bit damp to the touch. What's the best way to handle this properly in Dubai's climate, and should I call my building's maintenance or hire a specialized company myself?
Posted by Richard Thomas
Asked on May 19, 2026 3:25 am
Call building maintenance immediately to report the leak source—this is their responsibility. In Dubai’s high humidity, that dampness suggests an ongoing water intrusion, likely from a pipe or AC condensation line within the wall. They must fix the leak at its source; simply cleaning the mold will be ineffective if the moisture remains.

For the mold itself, do not disturb it. Black mold can release spores when agitated, potentially worsening the coughing. Given the visible spread and damp wall, this exceeds a simple surface wipe. A professional inspection is advised to assess penetration into the wall material and identify the exact species, as some types require specific containment during removal.

Specialized remediation companies are necessary when the building’s maintenance team lacks specific mold protocols. They use containment barriers, HEPA filtration, and proper disposal methods to prevent cross-contamination. The key is verifying their process: they should provide before-and-after air quality or surface sample data from an accredited lab to confirm the environment is returned to a safe state.

For your health concerns, document the mold and your children's symptoms. While a direct link requires medical evaluation, persistent indoor mold exposure is a known irritant. In the interim, keep the closet door closed and the room well-ventilated.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 19, 2026 8:21 am