Is musty smell from rain related to mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in the living room of our apartment. My kids have been complaining about frequent coughing and sneezing since then, especially after we turn on the air conditioning. Could this be related to mold or dust buildup from the ducts? Should I consider having them cleaned professionally?
Posted by Minji Zhang
Asked on February 3, 2026 1:03 pm
0
Absolutely, the musty smell from rain could be related to mold growth and it’s quite plausible that your air conditioning system might have trapped moisture which led to this issue. In Dubai and the UAE, post-rain conditions can indeed create an ideal environment for mold to flourish.

In our region, it's not uncommon for water intrusion during rainy periods to lead to dampness in ducts or HVAC systems. If such areas aren't promptly addressed, they can become breeding grounds for mold spores which are then circulated throughout your home via the air conditioning system. This is precisely why you might be noticing a musty smell and symptoms like coughing and sneezing in your kids.

Given that you've observed these issues since last month's rain event, it’s definitely worth investigating further to ensure you're not overlooking any serious problems. A professional inspection by an environmental expert can help identify if there are indeed mold or dust accumulation issues within the ducts of your apartment.

In Dubai, regulations require building owners and managers to maintain good indoor air quality standards which include regular cleaning and servicing of HVAC systems. While it's recommended that you clean ducts every 3-5 years for optimal performance, a more thorough inspection might be warranted given the recent weather conditions.

Considering how important clean air is for both health and comfort, I'd strongly suggest reaching out to a professional service like ours here at Saniservice. We can provide a detailed assessment of your ductwork and take necessary actions to prevent further mold growth. Give us a call on 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you want to schedule an appointment.

Remember, early detection and intervention are key in managing indoor air quality issues, especially when it comes to health concerns like those your kids might be experiencing due to the musty smell.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 7, 2026 7:01 am