Should I be worried about damp smells and mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp smell lingering in my bedroom. The condensation on windows is pretty bad, especially during the cooler evenings, and I can feel moisture seeping into the walls. My kids have been complaining of coughing fits every night, which has really got me worried about the indoor air quality here. How urgent should I be about addressing this issue to ensure a healthier living environment?
Posted by Ashok Malhotra
Asked on January 25, 2026 4:28 am
0
Absolutely, the damp smell and the presence of moisture can be quite concerning, especially given your description. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, humidity levels can soar, leading to conditions that are ripe for mold growth. The persistent dampness you've noticed in your bedroom could indeed be indicative of a potential mold issue, which can significantly affect indoor air quality (IAQ) and poses health risks, notably respiratory issues.

Firstly, the UAE has stringent building codes and regulations aimed at ensuring good IAQ, including guidelines on moisture management and ventilation. However, it's important to note that these regulations are not always followed, and sometimes, despite adherence to standards, moisture-related issues can still arise due to environmental factors or design flaws in buildings.

Given your concerns about the damp smell and the kids' coughing fits, I strongly recommend you take action without delay. The first step should be a professional inspection by an expert who understands local conditions and building materials used in the UAE. They will be able to assess the extent of moisture intrusion, identify if there's active mold growth (which can be hard to detect with the naked eye), and provide recommendations on how to mitigate these issues.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Ventilation: Ensure your home is well-ventilated. Open windows when possible, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and consider dehumidifiers for high-moisture areas like the bedroom.
2. Drying Out: If there's visible dampness or condensation on walls or windows, you may need to address the source of moisture. This could be fixing a leaking pipe, ensuring proper drainage around your home, or improving insulation.
3. Cleaning: Clean any mold growth with a solution made from one cup of bleach per gallon of water. Wear gloves and a mask when doing this.

For professional help, you can contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com for a thorough inspection and remediation plan. Don't wait as moisture issues can worsen over time leading to more serious health problems.

Remember, addressing this promptly isn't just about improving the air quality; it's also about safeguarding your family’s health in what is otherwise a warm and dry climate like Dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 26, 2026 3:13 pm