Could renovation fumes harm my family?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new apartment building a few months ago, I’ve noticed a strange chemical smell coming from the basement level where they’re renovating. The smell is most noticeable when the air conditioning kicks on, sending the fumes straight up to my living room. My kids have been complaining of headaches and their coughs seem worse lately too. Could this be related to the renovation or could there be something else I should look into?
Posted by Lauren Torres
Asked on December 25, 2025 9:40 pm
Absolutely. The strange chemical smell from the basement renovation could indeed be harmful to your family’s health. In the UAE and particularly in Dubai, there are several regulations that govern construction activities but it's crucial to remain vigilant.

Firstly, it is imperative to understand that some of these renovation fumes may contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, benzene, or other harmful substances which can exacerbate respiratory issues and lead to headaches, nausea, and worse. Given the proximity of your living space to the basement, the air conditioning system could indeed be circulating these contaminants throughout your apartment.

Given the symptoms you've described for your children—headaches and worsening coughs—it would be prudent to conduct a professional indoor air quality test. This is where our services come into play. At Saniservice, we have extensive experience in conducting comprehensive environmental inspections tailored to the UAE's climate and building codes.

We recommend scheduling an inspection as soon as possible. Our team can identify potential sources of contamination, assess your current air quality, and provide remediation solutions if necessary. It’s also important to ensure that proper ventilation is maintained during renovations. You may consider installing a HEPA filter in your HVAC system or using portable air purifiers to improve indoor air quality.

In terms of regulations, Dubai Municipality has stringent guidelines for construction activities, which include requirements for the use of environmentally friendly materials and minimizing emissions. However, it’s always advisable to stay informed about any local updates or changes that might affect your living environment.

For immediate relief from the smell, consider using activated charcoal air filters or placing bowls of baking soda in strategic locations around your home. These can help absorb some of the odors.

In conclusion, while we understand that this situation is causing concern, proactive measures such as professional inspections and timely remediation can significantly reduce health risks for you and your family. Should you decide to proceed with an inspection, please feel free to reach out to us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for further assistance.

Remember, staying informed about environmental factors in your home is crucial to maintaining a healthy living environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 27, 2025 6:58 pm