Mold behind wardrobe causing coughs: doctor or remediation first?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past few weeks and I’ve just found patches of black, fuzzy mold behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. We’ve lived in this Jumeirah villa for two years and it’s never been an issue until after the heavy rains last month. I’m getting really worried about their health and my own headaches. How urgent is this and should we see a doctor first or call a professional remediation company immediately?
Posted by Chiara Durand
Asked on April 25, 2026 10:50 pm
See a doctor first to address the immediate health symptoms, especially for your children. Document their coughs and your headaches, as this medical record is crucial. Then, call a professional mold inspector.

The heavy rains last month are a key clue. In Dubai's climate, such events often lead to hidden moisture problems in villas. Water may have seeped into the wall cavity behind the wardrobe, creating the perfect damp, dark, and humid environment for mold to grow. This is a common issue here after unusual weather.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing black mold can release a high concentration of spores into the air, potentially worsening your family's respiratory irritation. A professional inspection will identify the moisture source, assess the extent of the growth (often more than what's visible), and provide a remediation plan. Look for a provider that uses lab analysis to identify the mold type, as this informs the proper removal protocol and helps the doctor understand potential exposures.

For a case involving persistent health symptoms and visible growth, remediation is urgent. Proper remediation will involve containing the area, removing the contaminated materials safely, and fixing the underlying moisture issue to prevent it from returning.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 27, 2026 12:07 pm