Is black mold causing our family's health issues?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing constantly and my own eyes feel itchy and sore since the start of the summer. I’ve just noticed a few small patches of black mould in the corner of our master bedroom closet, which is on the outside wall of our villa in Jumeirah. I’m really worried this is the cause. How dangerous is this mould, and who should I call to properly remove it and fix the moisture problem for good?
Posted by Arjun Rao
Asked on April 11, 2026 1:00 am
0
Black mould in your villa's closet, especially on an exterior wall in Jumeirah, is a very likely contributor to your family's persistent coughing and eye irritation. The high humidity and temperature differential between air-conditioned rooms and the hot exterior walls creates a perfect environment for condensation and mould growth, which releases spores that are common irritants.

The specific health risk depends on the mould species and individual sensitivity, but Stachybotrys (often called 'black mould') is known for producing mycotoxins that can cause such symptoms, particularly in children. You should arrange for a professional inspection. A proper assessment involves more than a visual check; it requires identifying the moisture source (likely a thermal bridge or minor infiltration in the wall) and often includes air or surface sampling sent to a microbiology lab to confirm the species and concentration.

For removal, do not attempt to clean significant patches yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem. You need a specialist who follows Dubai Municipality guidelines for mould remediation. They will contain the area, safely remove the contaminated materials, and most importantly, diagnose and rectify the underlying moisture issue to prevent recurrence. Look for providers who can explain their diagnostic process and provide verifiable before-and-after lab reports, not just a cleaning service. Addressing the root cause is the only permanent solution in our climate.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 12, 2026 6:12 am