Should I worry about mold growth?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from under the sink in my bedroom. It’s gotten worse over the past couple of weeks, and now there seems to be some discoloration on the walls too. The AC in my apartment has been running more frequently to try and dry things out, but it doesn’t seem to help much. Is this something I should be worried about, or is this a maintenance issue that the landlord is responsible for?
Posted by Wei Hoang
Asked on February 28, 2026 6:05 am
Absolutely, you should be concerned about the potential for mold growth. The scenario you described is very common following heavy rainfall and can lead to serious health issues if left unaddressed.

In the UAE, especially in a place like Dubai where humidity levels are high, moisture from rain penetrating into walls or under sinks can create ideal conditions for mold to flourish. Mold spores are ubiquitous in the environment but thrive in dampness and darkness—conditions that seem to be present in your situation.

The musty smell and discoloration on walls you've noticed are early signs of mold growth. These symptoms often precede more visible damage, which can include a variety of colors from black to green or even white, depending on the type of mold. Mold growth can also lead to structural issues as it eats away at materials like drywall and wood.

From a health standpoint, mold exposure is particularly concerning in a residential setting. Common health effects include allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, skin rash, and asthma attacks. Additionally, some molds produce mycotoxins that can cause more severe symptoms, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems.

Given the severity of this situation, I strongly recommend a professional inspection to assess the extent of mold growth and determine the appropriate remediation steps. In Dubai, regulations mandate that properties be inspected by certified professionals when dealing with water damage or mold issues. You should consider contacting Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an expert consultation.

In the meantime, avoid touching any suspected areas and do not attempt to clean them yourself as this can spread spores. Keep the area well ventilated but don’t use the AC fan mode; instead opt for a dehumidifier if you have one on hand. Regularly cleaning the sink and surrounding surfaces with a 1:10 bleach solution can help reduce mold growth until professional assistance is available.

Remember, early detection and action are key to preventing further damage and ensuring your health and safety.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 3, 2026 12:16 am