Could dampness cause my kids' symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a damp smell lingering in our basement, even after drying everything out. The AC in my apartment seems to exacerbate it, as the air feels stuffy and unpleasant no matter how many times I run it. My kids have been complaining of coughs and sniffles for weeks now, and I’m starting to wonder if there’s an issue with the indoor air quality down here. Could this be causing their symptoms?
Posted by Leila Al-Hassan
Asked on February 3, 2026 11:26 pm
0
Could dampness cause my kids' symptoms?

Yes, definitely. In the UAE, particularly in areas like Dubai where we experience occasional heavy rains, damp conditions can indeed lead to some pretty uncomfortable and even health-related issues for your family. Dampness in basements or other low-lying areas of a home is often associated with a musty smell that you've noticed – this might be indicative of mold growth.

Molds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, toxic substances known as mycotoxins. These can exacerbate respiratory problems such as coughing, sniffles, and even asthma attacks. Given your children’s complaints, it's quite possible the dampness has triggered these symptoms.

In Dubai and other parts of the UAE, there are specific regulations regarding indoor air quality (IAQ) that must be followed to ensure occupant health. The UAE Ministry of Energy and Industry has guidelines on IAQ which includes measures against mold growth and ventilation requirements. However, these are general and may not always address localized issues in your home like basement dampness.

If you're experiencing persistent symptoms despite drying out the area, it would be wise to seek professional inspection and remediation services. Companies such as Saniservice offer reliable solutions and can help diagnose whether mold or other contaminants are present. They can also provide recommendations on how to safely remove them and ensure a healthier indoor environment for your family.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you need assistance with this issue. Remember, addressing the root cause of dampness is crucial – besides mold remediation, ensuring proper ventilation in your home can also prevent future occurrences of these uncomfortable symptoms.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 7, 2026 5:49 pm