Is black mold under my carpet causing kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Black spots under carpets in older Dubai buildings are frequently mold, especially near AC vents where condensation creates constant dampness. The UAE's high humidity and year-round AC use make this a common issue. While not all black mold is the toxic 'Stachybotrys' type, any mold colony under carpet can release spores that cause persistent coughing and allergy symptoms in children, particularly when playing on the floor.

You should not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it will release a large number of spores into the air. The first step is a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector will use moisture meters to map the dampness and take air and surface samples for lab analysis to identify the species and concentration. This is critical, as the remediation approach depends on whether it's a surface mold or has penetrated the subfloor.

In Dubai, look for a company that follows DM and DHA guidelines and provides a full diagnostic report from an accredited microbiology lab—this verifies the findings and ensures the solution matches the problem. For a situation involving child health, a full indoor air quality assessment is also wise to rule out other irritants. Keep the area isolated and ensure good ventilation in the room until the inspection is complete.