Is Jumeirah villa mold causing kids' cough« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I'm starting to panic. I just pulled out our winter clothes from the storage cupboard under the stairs and found a huge patch of black mold covering the entire back wall, and all our clothes smell damp and musty. We're in a villa in Jumeirah and I'm worried the humidity got to it after the cooler weather. Could this mold be the cause of their breathing issues and what's the safest way to get it professionally removed here?
Posted by Hannah Thompson
Asked on May 16, 2026 6:11 am
Yes, the mold in your storage cupboard is very likely contributing to your children's persistent cough. The damp, musty clothes confirm high humidity levels in that enclosed space, and black mold growth often causes respiratory irritation, especially in children whose airways are more sensitive. In Dubai's climate, these enclosed spaces without proper ventilation can trap humidity and create perfect conditions for mold, even during cooler months.

For a mold patch covering an entire wall, professional remediation is strongly advised. The process should begin with a thorough inspection to identify the moisture source and assess the full extent, as mold can spread behind walls. In villas, common causes are plumbing leaks, ground moisture, or condensation from AC systems. Proper remediation involves containment of the area to prevent spores from spreading throughout your home, safe removal of all contaminated materials (like the affected clothes and possibly drywall), HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment of the structure.

Look for a provider that follows IICRC S520 standards for mold remediation, which is the industry benchmark. They should use negative air pressure containment and provide documentation, including before/after photos and preferably post-remediation verification testing from an independent lab to confirm the space is safe. Do not attempt to remove it yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and worsen the air quality. For your children's health, having it professionally assessed and removed is the safest course of action.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 18, 2026 9:38 am