Is rental mold causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold you found is very likely contributing to your children's persistent cough. In Dubai's high humidity, carpets act as sponges, trapping moisture from the air or from a hidden leak—often from an adjacent bathroom. The damp, dark environment under the carpet is an ideal breeding ground for mold, and its spores become airborne, irritating the respiratory tract and exacerbating allergies.

For a rental, your first step is to notify the landlord or property management company in writing immediately. Under Dubai's rental laws, the landlord is typically responsible for resolving issues related to building integrity and maintenance that cause dampness, such as a leaking pipe or faulty waterproofing. Do not attempt to clean a patch this large yourself, as improper disturbance will aerosolize a massive amount of spores throughout your apartment.

The safest approach is a professional inspection to identify the moisture source and the mold species. The visual presence of "black mold" doesn't automatically mean it's the notorious Stachybotrys; many common black-colored molds in the UAE can cause these symptoms. A certified inspector can take samples for lab analysis to confirm the type and advise on the required scope of remediation, which your landlord should arrange. Until it's handled, keep the room closed off, increase ventilation by running exhaust fans, and use a dehumidifier to help lower the indoor humidity that fuels mold growth.