Is damp mold behind furniture making my kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, damp mold behind furniture can absolutely cause respiratory symptoms like coughing in children. The UAE's high humidity, especially during summer months, creates ideal conditions for mold growth in hidden areas with poor air circulation, like behind wardrobes. Children are particularly susceptible due to their developing respiratory systems.

The damp wall indicates an ongoing moisture issue, which must be addressed first. This is often due to condensation from an exterior wall or a small, hidden plumbing leak. Simply cleaning the visible mold is not enough; the source must be identified and fixed.

For a case like this with health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They will use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the wall's internal condition and identify the water source. The mold should be tested to identify the species, as this informs the proper remediation protocol and helps assess the potential health risk to your family. In Dubai, remediation companies should follow standards like the IICRC S520 for proper containment and removal to prevent cross-contamination.

The fastest way to get tested is to contact a company with an in-house microbiology lab, as they can often schedule a swift inspection and provide species identification from swab samples within a few days. During remediation, your family should stay elsewhere until the area is cleared with post-remediation verification testing. To prevent recurrence, ensure the moisture source is resolved and maintain good air circulation around furniture; even a small gap between the wardrobe and the wall can help significantly. Using a dehumidifier in conjunction with your AC can also help control ambient humidity levels.