How to check for mold under wet carpet?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your situation in Al Barsha, that persistent cough is a significant red flag. The high humidity here in Dubai, even post-rain, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold within 24-48 hours of water exposure. If the carpet felt dry on top but the underlay was still damp, mold growth underneath is highly probable.

To check for hidden mold, start with a careful visual inspection. You'll need to pull back a corner or a seam of the carpet in an inconspicuous area, like behind a sofa. Look for visible discoloration—black, green, or white fuzzy growth—on the underside of the carpet and especially on the carpet pad. The most telling sign will be a strong, musty, earthy odor; that's the microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) released by active mold colonies.

However, I must STRONGLY advise against a full DIY investigation. Disturbing mold colonies can aerosolize spores throughout your home's air, potentially worsening your son's respiratory symptoms. Furthermore, proper assessment requires tools like moisture meters to find residual dampness in the slab and subfloor, and professional air or surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels for an effective remediation plan.

For a case like this with clear health symptoms, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. We are certified to conduct these assessments in line with UAE health and safety guidelines. Please, do not hesitate to call our team for a comprehensive evaluation. We can determine the extent of the problem and recommend the correct course of action to safeguard your family's health.

Call us at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule an inspection, or you can email hello@saniservice.com.