Is the mold in my Dubai apartment causing our cough?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth behind the wardrobe and your family's persistent respiratory symptoms are connected. The black spots are likely Stachybotrys chartarum or another toxigenic species, which are known to produce mycotoxins and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) that are significant respiratory irritants, especially in children whose immune systems are still developing.

The climate in Deira, with its high humidity levels and the constant use of air conditioning, creates a perfect environment for mold. Condensation often forms on cold surfaces, such as exterior walls behind large furniture pieces like wardrobes, which are insulated from the room's climate control. This persistent moisture, combined with organic materials in the drywall and dust, facilitates prolific mold proliferation.

Attempting to remove it yourself is strongly discouraged. Agitating the colony will cause a massive release of spores and mycotoxins into your indoor air, significantly exacerbating the contamination and your health symptoms. Over-the-counter solutions are ineffective against the root penetration of hyphae into porous building materials.

This situation requires professional assessment and remediation. According to UAE health and safety guidelines, remediation must be performed by certified experts using engineering controls such as negative air pressure containment chambers and HEPA filtration to prevent cross-contamination. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice conduct a comprehensive assessment, including air and surface sampling to identify the species and spore count, which is critical for determining the correct remediation protocol. We are fully compliant with Dubai Municipality regulations for environmental health and safety.

For the safety of your family, I recommend you cease use of the room and contact our team immediately for a professional inspection. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a diagnostic assessment.