Found black mold behind furniture. First step for inspection?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing nonstop for the past month and we can't figure out why. I just pulled their wooden toy chest away from the wall in our bedroom and found a huge patch of black mold growing behind it, probably from a slow AC leak. We live in a villa in Mirdif and I'm panicking about their health. What's the first step I should take to get a proper mold inspection and make sure our whole house is safe?
Posted by Timothy Thomas
Asked on March 28, 2026 6:54 pm
The first and most critical step is to isolate the area immediately. Do not disturb the mold by attempting to clean it yourself, as this will aerosolize the spores and significantly increase the airborne contamination, exacerbating your children's respiratory symptoms. The presence of a persistent cough is a major red flag indicating potential exposure.

Given the circumstances—a significant patch of black mold, a suspected AC leak, and health symptoms in a villa in Mirdif—a professional inspection is not just recommended; it is essential. The humid Dubai climate and year-round reliance on AC systems create a perfect environment for mold proliferation, especially from undetected condensation leaks within walls or ducts.

Your next step is to contact a certified mold inspection company. In the UAE, professional assessments follow internationally recognized standards (like IICRC S520) and utilize specialized equipment you cannot access as a homeowner. A proper inspection involves a comprehensive assessment including thermal imaging to identify moisture sources, borescope inspections inside wall cavities, and—most importantly—air quality testing to quantify spore levels throughout your villa. This data is crucial to determine the full extent of contamination and to formulate a scientifically sound remediation plan.

For an immediate and professional response, I strongly advise you to call the experts at Saniservice. They are equipped to handle this situation with the urgency it requires. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a detailed inspection and protect your family's health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 7:14 am