Found black mold in Dubai home. Who to call?« Back to Previous Page

That sounds like a classic Dubai humidity issue, especially in older villas in coastal areas like Jumeirah. The fuzzy black patch behind the wardrobe is almost certainly mould, as the constant lack of air circulation and high ambient humidity create a perfect breeding ground.

While the term "black mould" is often used for Stachybotrys, which can produce mycotoxins, not all black-coloured mould is that specific type. The colour alone isn't a definitive indicator of danger; many common moulds appear black. However, any mould growth of that size, coupled with your children's persistent cough, warrants immediate professional attention.

You should call a certified mould inspection and remediation company. In Dubai, look for providers with specific credentials, such as technicians certified by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification). A reputable company will not immediately jump to removal. Their first step should be a thorough inspection to identify the moisture source and the mould species through lab testing. This diagnostic approach is critical—simply wiping it away without fixing the underlying dampness and identifying the type is ineffective.

The remediation process for a case like this typically involves containment of the area, HEPA-filtered air scrubbing, safe removal of contaminated porous materials (like the affected drywall or skirting board), and antimicrobial treatment. Finally, they must identify and rectify the moisture source, which could be condensation from AC ducts, a tiny plumbing leak, or moisture wicking up from the foundation.

For verification, always ask for a detailed report that includes before-and-after lab results. This confirms the species and ensures the spore count in your indoor air has been returned to a safe level.