How to test for mold after Jumeirah flood?« Back to Previous Page

After the flooding last month, the carpet in our ground-floor apartment in Jumeirah still feels slightly damp near the walls. Now my youngest has developed a persistent cough and we've all been getting headaches. I’m starting to worry about mold growing underneath. What are the first steps I should take to get our place tested for mold safely?
Posted by Lisa Thompson
Asked on March 28, 2026 1:20 am
Given the recent flooding in Jumeirah and the symptoms you're describing—damp carpets, a child's persistent cough, and headaches—it is absolutely critical to address this immediately. In the UAE's climate, mold growth can begin within 24-48 hours of water intrusion, thriving in the damp, warm conditions often found beneath carpets and behind baseboards.

Your first step is not a DIY test. Over-the-counter kits are notoriously unreliable in our environment. The correct first step is a professional indoor environmental quality inspection. A certified specialist will conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes moisture mapping with thermal imaging cameras and hygrometers to quantify the dampness within the structure itself, not just the surface. This is followed by strategic air and surface sampling, which is analyzed by an accredited laboratory to identify the specific genus and concentration of mold spores present. This data is vital, as it dictates the precise remediation protocol required.

Under Dubai Municipality guidelines, significant mold contamination, especially in a residential setting with health symptoms present, mandates professional remediation to ensure it is removed safely, preventing cross-contamination and protecting occupant health. Do not attempt to lift the carpet yourself, as this can release a massive plume of spores into your living environment.

For a certified inspection and a detailed report, you need to call professionals. Please contact our team immediately at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. Your family's health is the priority.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 6:50 am