Should I check for mold myself or hire professionals?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell and some discoloration on the walls of our living room. My family has also been experiencing more coughs lately, which makes me suspect mold might be an issue here. Should I hire professionals to check for mold or is there something simple I can do myself first?
Posted by Tariq El-Sayed
Asked on January 15, 2026 12:00 pm
Absolutely, given the climate and conditions here in the UAE, particularly after heavy rains, it's wise to consider having a professional inspection. The musty smell and discoloration on your walls could indeed be indicative of mold growth, which can pose serious health risks especially for family members experiencing increased coughs.

Firstly, let’s look at why you might want to involve professionals rather than handling the situation yourself:
• Certainty: Professionals are trained to identify various types of mold and determine if it's toxic or non-toxic.
• Safety: Mold remediation involves hazardous materials that require proper personal protective equipment (PPE) which can be difficult to use correctly without expertise.
• Compliance: The UAE has specific regulations regarding indoor air quality and mold remediation, ensuring work is done in accordance with local laws.

However, before calling for professionals, a few steps you could take are:
1. Visual Inspection: Look closely at the affected areas; if you notice dark spots or discoloration on walls or ceiling, it may indicate mold growth.
2. Testing Kits: You can purchase over-the-counter mold testing kits which are easy to use and provide immediate results about mold presence.

Should your visual inspection suggest the need for further action, or if you're uncomfortable doing a DIY test:
• Professional Inspection: Contact a certified environmental health consultant in Dubai who specializes in mold inspections. They will conduct thorough air sampling and swab tests to identify the type of mold present.
• Remediation Services: Once identified, a professional team can safely remove contaminated materials and treat the affected areas with appropriate techniques.

In the UAE, you could contact Saniservice, a reputable company known for their expertise in mold remediation. You may reach them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.

Remember, early detection and proper handling can prevent potential health issues and costly structural damage. Always prioritize your family's health and safety when dealing with mold.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 17, 2026 8:24 am