What's the best way to inspect mold for child's safety?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our villa's guest bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last few weeks and now I’m seeing small black spots along the bottom of the wall. My two-year-old has been sleeping in there and has developed a persistent cough that just won’t go away, which is making me really worried. What’s the best way to get a proper mold inspection done to make sure it’s safe for her?
Posted by Divya Kapoor
Asked on March 26, 2026 7:30 pm
An AC leak in Dubai's climate creates a perfect environment for mold growth within 24-48 hours. The black spots are a clear visual indicator, and a persistent cough in a young child is a significant health concern that warrants immediate, professional assessment.

For a proper inspection that ensures safety, do not disturb the area. Do not attempt to wipe or clean the spots, as this can aerosolize spores. The most effective method is a combination of visual assessment and air quality testing. A certified inspector will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the full extent of moisture behind the wall from the leak, then take air samples from the room and a control area (like the outside) for lab analysis. This culture identifies the species and concentration of mold present, which is critical for understanding the health risk and planning remediation.

In the UAE, look for a provider with documented methodology and their own microbiology lab, as this ensures they can interpret the data for you accurately, not just collect samples. They should provide a detailed report specifying the types of mold, spore counts, and a clear remediation protocol. This evidence-based approach is what differentiates a legitimate inspection from a superficial one. Until the inspection, it would be prudent to relocate your child to another room and ensure the AC unit is switched off to prevent it from circulating any airborne particles.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 7:06 am