Is high humidity harming my home?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in the bedroom closet, and when I checked, I found that the humidity had risen to 75%. The walls are starting to show some condensation, and my kids have been coughing more than usual. How urgent is this issue, and what can I do to address it quickly?
Posted by Anthony Jackson
Asked on March 3, 2026 3:42 am
High humidity levels like the 75% you've noticed can indeed be harmful to your home and its inhabitants. In dubai/uae, a high relative humidity (RH) can lead to an increase in mold growth, which is particularly concerning as you have already observed a musty smell and condensation on walls. Additionally, increased moisture can deteriorate building materials over time, leading to structural damage.

The UAE building codes and regulations emphasize the importance of maintaining indoor air quality and managing humidity levels. According to the Building Code for Dubai (BCE), the recommended maximum RH for residential spaces is 60-70%, which your current environment surpasses significantly.

The coughing experienced by your children could be a result of respiratory irritation caused by mold spores or other allergens that thrive in high-humidity environments. It's crucial to act quickly to mitigate these risks.

To address this issue, you should first consider conducting a professional moisture and air quality assessment to understand the extent of the problem. This step is vital as it can help identify not only current issues but also potential future problems. You might contact companies like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance.

In the meantime, you could implement some temporary measures. Using a dehumidifier in affected areas can greatly reduce RH levels and minimize mold growth. Ensure to choose a unit with an appropriate capacity for your space; typically, a dehumidifier of 50-70 pints per day would be suitable for smaller rooms like closets.

Ventilation is another key factor. Open windows when the outdoor humidity is lower than inside, but ensure you have adequate air filtration systems to prevent dust and pollen from entering. Utilizing exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens can also help reduce moisture levels significantly.

Lastly, inspecting your home for water leaks and addressing any issues promptly will aid in maintaining optimal indoor conditions. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can further prevent external humidity from penetrating the building.

By taking these steps, you'll be well on your way to improving both the health of your family and the longevity of your property. Remember that regular maintenance is key to preventing such issues in the future.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 5, 2026 1:26 pm