How to get a proper mold inspection for bedroom wall?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed small black spots appearing along the bottom of the wall behind our wardrobe in the master bedroom. I’m worried it’s gotten worse since the recent humidity spike. What’s the best way to get a proper mold inspection done here, and should I be looking for a specific type of company?
Posted by Ryo Inoue
Asked on March 18, 2026 8:52 am
Based on your description, this is a classic presentation of a mold issue in Dubai, likely exacerbated by the recent high humidity. The location behind a large piece of furniture is a key indicator; wardresses inhibit air circulation, creating a micro-climate where condensation forms on the cooler exterior walls, especially with year-round AC use. The recent humidity spike would have provided the final ingredient for accelerated mold growth.

For a proper inspection, you must engage a professional environmental inspection company, not a general handyman or cleaning service. In the UAE, reputable firms employ certified Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs) who follow standards like the IICRC S520 for mold remediation. The inspection should be comprehensive and include three critical components:

1. Visual Assessment: A thorough examination of the affected area and adjacent spaces, including using borescopes to view cavities.
2. Moisture Mapping: Using professional-grade tools like thermal imaging cameras and penetrating moisture meters to identify the exact source and extent of moisture intrusion, which is crucial for an effective remediation plan.
3. Air and Surface Sampling: This is non-negotiable for proper identification. Air sampling compares spore counts indoors versus outdoors, while tape or swab samples from the black spots are sent to an accredited lab (e.g., EMIC UAE) to identify the species. This is vital as some species, like Stachybotrys chartarum (toxic black mold), require more stringent containment protocols.

I strongly recommend against DIY testing kits, as they are unreliable and provide no meaningful data for a remediation strategy. Given the hidden nature of the problem behind the wardrobe, the infestation is likely more extensive than the visible spots suggest.

For a certified inspection and detailed lab analysis, you should contact a specialist firm like Saniservice. They can provide a full assessment and a scope of work for any necessary remediation. You can reach them for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 19, 2026 12:11 pm