Is black mold behind box causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

The mold behind your box is very likely contributing to your children's cough, especially given Dubai's high humidity which allows mold to thrive. The wall likely became damp from condensation or a slow, hidden leak, and the enclosed space created an ideal environment for it to grow unnoticed.

This isn't a midnight emergency service call, but you should address it this week. Start by isolating the area; keep the kids and pets away from that closet and close the door. Do not attempt to scrub it yourself, as this can aerosolize the spores and significantly worsen the indoor air quality, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues.

A professional inspection is strongly recommended for a case like this. The visible patch is often just the "bloom" of the mold; the root system can penetrate deep into the drywall or plaster. An expert will use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the full extent of the damage hidden within the wall cavity and identify the moisture source—which is critical to prevent it from returning immediately after cleaning.

For your villa in Jumeirah, the remediation process typically involves sealing off the area, safely removing contaminated materials like the drywall, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. The goal is to remove the mold and fix the underlying dampness, which is a common issue in our climate due to condensation from constant AC use and high ambient humidity. A proper inspection will give you a clear plan and peace of mind.