Mold in closet causing kids' coughs—who to call?« Back to Previous Page

That damp, earthy smell with visible spots is almost certainly mold, and the persistent coughs in your children are a significant concern that warrants immediate action. In Dubai's climate, closets storing winter clothes are prime mold habitats due to humidity, condensation from AC units, and lack of airflow, especially in villas where walls can absorb moisture.

You need a professional indoor environmental inspector, not just a cleaning company. Look for a provider with certified mold inspectors who use a combination of moisture meters, thermal imaging, and—most critically—air and surface sampling that is sent to an independent microbiology lab for analysis. This is the only way to identify the specific mold species and its concentration in the air your children are breathing, which dictates the necessary remediation steps.

Avoid companies that offer free inspections with the intent to sell cleaning services; a proper diagnostic inspection is a standalone service. The report should clearly state the types and levels of mold present indoors compared to an outdoor control sample. For a situation involving child health, this lab data is essential. Once you have the inspection report, you can then engage a qualified remediation team to address the source, which likely extends beyond just the closet and into the wall cavity.