Can I handle mold myself or need pro?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain we had last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the bottom of my bedroom closet. It's hard to ignore because it’s right next to where my kids sleep. When I checked, there seemed to be a small patch of mold growing on the back wall behind some old boxes. Can someone tell me if this is something I can handle myself or if I should call in an expert?
Posted by Zainab Al-Sabah
Asked on January 14, 2026 11:52 pm
Certainly. Mold is a serious issue that can pose health risks and cause structural damage to properties. In the context of your situation in Dubai/UAE, it's crucial to assess the extent of the mold growth and understand your options.

Firstly, let’s consider the signs you’ve observed – a musty smell emanating from behind boxes in your bedroom closet. This is a common indicator of mold presence, especially after exposure to moisture or humidity. Mold thrives in damp conditions, so it's not surprising that you’re noticing this issue post-heavy rain.

In terms of handling this yourself, while small patches can sometimes be managed with proper cleaning techniques, there are several factors you should consider:

1. Extent and Type of Mold: Some molds are more aggressive than others, particularly those that grow in hard-to-reach areas like behind walls. Assessing the extent and type of mold is critical to determining appropriate remediation methods.

2. Health Risks: Exposed individuals can experience allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues from mold exposure. Given the proximity to where your kids sleep, it’s essential to take this seriously.

3. Regulations in UAE: The Abu Dhabi Municipality has guidelines for mold management that must be adhered to. Ensuring compliance with local regulations is important, especially when dealing with more extensive or persistent mold growth.

4. Safety and Equipment: Handling mold requires protective gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles. These may not always be available in sufficient quantities or quality if you attempt DIY remediation.

5. Structural Damage Potential: Mold can cause significant structural damage over time, especially when it grows behind walls or in areas with hidden water leaks. Addressing the mold issue prevents further deterioration of your home’s integrity.

Considering these factors, while small patches might be manageable, for peace of mind and to ensure compliance with local regulations, I strongly recommend calling in a professional environmental inspection and remediation company. They have the expertise, equipment, and safety measures necessary to effectively address the situation.

For assistance, you can contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Professional services will not only clean up your mold problem but also prevent recurrence by identifying underlying moisture issues and recommending appropriate solutions.

In conclusion, while you might be tempted to tackle this yourself, the potential risks and consequences make professional intervention highly advisable.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 16, 2026 7:31 am