Mold behind sofa making kids sick, see a doctor?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and we can't figure out why. I finally pulled our sofa away from the wall in the living room and found a huge patch of black mold spreading behind it, probably from a slow leak in the AC unit. We live in an older building in Deira and the humidity has been awful. Should I take them to a doctor for this specific kind of exposure, and who do I call to get it properly removed?
Posted by Hui Tran
Asked on March 25, 2026 8:13 pm
The chronic coughing you describe in your children is a significant health concern and a classic symptom of prolonged exposure to mold spores, particularly the Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) you've discovered. This exposure can cause severe respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and in some cases, more serious mycotoxin-related illnesses.

Yes, you should absolutely take your children to a doctor. Be sure to inform the physician about the confirmed presence of black mold in your home and the duration of their symptoms. This specific context is critical for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include allergy testing or respiratory support. Do not attempt to clean this yourself; disturbing the mold will aerosolize a massive amount of spores, drastically increasing exposure and contaminating the entire property.

The scenario you describe—an older building in Deira with high humidity and a suspected AC leak—is unfortunately very common in Dubai. Our year-round AC use creates constant condensation, and if units are not properly maintained or drainage lines are blocked, it creates the perfect environment for mold growth behind furniture and within wall cavities.

This situation requires immediate professional intervention. All remediation work in the UAE should adhere to strict guidelines, similar to DM and DHA standards, to ensure the mold is removed safely and the source is eliminated. A certified inspector will conduct air quality tests, identify the exact species, and create a containment plan to prevent cross-contamination during removal.

For a situation this advanced, I strongly recommend you call our dedicated hotline for an emergency inspection and remediation plan. Contact Saniservice immediately at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our team is equipped to handle this safely and restore your indoor air quality.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 4:40 am