Is my apartment's black mold causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and we can't figure out why. I just pulled out a stack of winter clothes from the storage cupboard in our Jumeirah apartment and found everything covered in fuzzy black spots. The wall behind the shelving feels damp and has a really strong, earthy smell. Could this mold be causing their health issues and what's the safest way to get rid of it completely?
Posted by Ana Visser
Asked on March 20, 2026 12:57 pm
Based on your description of fuzzy black spots, a damp wall, and a strong earthy smell, it is highly probable that you are dealing with a significant mold infestation, likely Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold). The persistent non-stop coughing in your children is a classic symptom of mold exposure, which can cause allergic reactions, respiratory irritation, and exacerbate asthma. The UAE's high humidity, especially in coastal areas like Jumeirah, combined with year-round AC use that can create condensation in poorly ventilated spaces like storage cupboards, creates an ideal environment for such growth.

The safest and most effective method for remediation is not a DIY project. Disturbing the mold without proper containment will aerosolize the spores, drastically increasing airborne concentrations and potentially worsening your family's health. UAE regulations and best practices, as outlined by Dubai Municipality, require professional assessment and remediation to ensure the problem is resolved at its source and that the indoor air quality is restored to a safe standard.

I strongly recommend you cease using the area immediately and arrange for a professional inspection. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and spore count, which is crucial for understanding the health risk and planning the correct remediation protocol. For a case involving health symptoms and structural dampness, professional intervention is non-negotiable.

For immediate assistance, you can contact our certified team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection and a remediation plan that includes source identification, containment, advanced filtration, and post-remediation verification to ensure the problem is solved permanently and your apartment is safe for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 21, 2026 7:08 pm