Could mold in our basement be causing family symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent flooding in our building's basement, there's a strong musty odor coming from the central air vent. The smell is especially noticeable when we first turn on the AC in the morning, and it has been going on for about two weeks now. My kids have started to complain of headaches and my partner has had a persistent cough. Given how close the basement is to our unit, I'm worried about mold or other contaminants being circulated through the system. Could this be causing their symptoms?
Posted by Jason Wright
Asked on December 26, 2025 1:36 pm
0
Absolutely, it’s very plausible that the musty odor from your basement could be causing those headaches and coughs. In dubai/uae we've seen many instances where basements can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria due to humidity and poor ventilation.

Given the proximity of your basement to living areas and the duration of this issue, it's highly recommended that you get a professional inspection as soon as possible. The UAE has strict regulations regarding indoor air quality, especially in residential buildings, which are outlined in the Building Code 1305 and other local laws.

In Dubai, such issues can escalate quickly if not addressed properly. The musty smell is commonly associated with mold growth, particularly on damp surfaces or materials that have been exposed to water damage from flooding. Mold spores can easily travel through your HVAC system and get circulated throughout the building, affecting everyone's health.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Contact a professional company for an inspection. At Saniservice, we’ve helped many families identify hidden mold sources in their basements and fixed them to avoid further issues.
2. Keep the AC off until you have a proper inspection. This will prevent any potential spores from being blown into your living areas.
3. Consider opening windows when possible to improve ventilation. But be cautious of outdoor pollutants, especially if there's been recent construction or other disturbances in the area.

If you decide to go with Saniservice, our team can conduct a thorough inspection and provide a detailed report on what’s causing the odor and how it might affect your family's health. We offer specialized treatments that include cleaning and disinfecting the HVAC system to remove any contaminants.

Remember, early intervention is key. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help as soon as possible to ensure your family's safety and comfort. Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you need assistance.

Now, back to that musty smell... it could just be the start of a bigger issue. Let’s get to the bottom of this!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 27, 2025 10:14 pm