Is my kids' cough from hidden black mold?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and we can't figure out why. I've just pulled out a storage box from the back of our walk-in wardrobe in Jumeirah Park and found a patch of black mold on the wall behind it, which must have been there for ages. I'm really worried their cough is connected to this. What's the first step I should take for a proper mold inspection to see how bad it is?
Posted by Charles Brown
Asked on May 24, 2026 1:25 am
Black mold exposure can absolutely cause persistent coughing, especially in children who are more sensitive to airborne irritants. The constant AC use here, combined with high humidity, creates ideal conditions for mold to thrive in hidden spaces like behind storage.

Your first step is to not disturb the area. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as this will release a large number of spores into the air. Immediately close the wardrobe door and limit access to the room. The goal is to contain the spread until you can get a professional assessment.

For a proper inspection, you need a certified mold inspector who uses a moisture meter and thermal imaging to find the full extent of the moisture source and any hidden growth behind walls or under flooring. In a case like this with health symptoms, a lab test is critical. An air quality sample from the room and a tape-lift sample of the mold itself will identify the species and spore concentration. This is the only way to confirm if the type and level of mold present could be causing the symptoms and to guide the correct remediation method.

In Dubai's climate, this often stems from a small, unnoticed condensation leak from an AC pipe inside the wall or a minor seepage issue exacerbated by humidity. A proper inspection will pinpoint this so it can be fixed, preventing it from returning after cleanup. Given the symptoms and the visible find, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the full situation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 26, 2026 8:16 am