Should I get an expert for water damage smell now?« Back to Previous Page
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Our ground floor apartment in Jumeirah 1 got about a foot of water during the storm last week. We've cleaned up the visible mess, but now there's a really strong, damp smell coming from the corner of the living room, and the wooden skirting board feels soft and spongy to the touch. Is this something I need to get an expert to look at immediately, or can it wait a few more days?
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Yes, you absolutely need to get an expert to look at this immediately. Waiting a few more days will only allow the problem to become significantly worse and more expensive to remediate.
The strong, damp smell is a clear indicator of active microbial growth—mold and bacteria—thriving within the building materials. The fact that your wooden skirting board is soft and spongy confirms that structural absorbent materials are saturated. In Dubai's climate, with its high heat and humidity, this creates an incubator for mold, which can begin colonizing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. The water likely wicked up the walls behind the skirting, saturating the drywall/plaster and the insulation within the wall cavity, which you cannot see. This is a serious indoor air quality issue. Inhalation of mold spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) from this decay can cause significant health issues, particularly for those with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. Furthermore, according to UAE public health and safety regulations, properties must be maintained to prevent conditions that are hazardous to health. Prolonged dampness and mold growth can be considered a violation of these standards. Our professional inspection involves using moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and borescopes to assess the full extent of the damage hidden within the walls and under the floor. We then execute a controlled remediation process including water extraction, demolition of unsalvageable materials, professional-grade drying, and antimicrobial hygienization to make your home safe and odor-free again. Do not delay. For a professional assessment and to prevent further damage, call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. |
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