Mold in closet causing sickness; need professional inspection?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my master bedroom closet has been leaking on and off for a few months and now I’m finding black spots on the back wall and our shoes. Lately, my wife and I have been waking up with stuffy noses and headaches that clear up once we leave for work. We're in an older building in Jumeirah. Should we get a professional mold inspection or can the building's maintenance team handle this?
Posted by Marco De Jong
Asked on April 8, 2026 9:05 am
Based on your detailed description, a professional mold inspection is not just recommended; it is essential. The symptoms you describe—stuffy noses and headaches that resolve when you leave the environment—are classic indicators of exposure to microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) or mycotoxins released by active mold colonies. This is a clear health concern that requires immediate and professional attention.

The situation in your Jumeirah building is a textbook case of a chronic moisture issue, likely exacerbated by the UAE's high ambient humidity and the constant cooling cycles of your AC unit. The leak has created a perfect environment for mold, particularly the black spots you see, which could be Stachybotrys chartarum (often referred to as "black mold") or Cladosporium. These species are known to cause the type of health effects you are experiencing. A building maintenance team can fix the water leak, but they are not equipped to handle the resultant biological contamination. Their cleaning attempts may even disturb the spores, causing a wider dispersal and increasing your exposure.

In Dubai, proper mold remediation is governed by strict hygiene and environmental health standards. A certified professional inspector will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping, thermal imaging to find hidden dampness, and air and surface sampling to identify the specific species and concentration levels. This scientific data is crucial for designing an effective remediation protocol that goes beyond simple cleaning to include containment, air scrubbing, and hygienization of the affected materials.

For your health and safety, do not attempt to handle this yourself. I strongly recommend you contact a specialist like Saniservice. Their certified team uses industry-leading protocols to ensure the mold is removed safely and completely. You can reach them for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 9:42 pm