Should I worry about musty smell in living room?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of the living room where the ceiling meets the wall. It's only been there for about two weeks now, but it’s getting worse every day. The kids have also been complaining of coughing fits lately and I’m worried it might be related to this smell. How urgent is it to address a potential mold issue in my home?
Posted by Dina Al-Nasser
Asked on January 27, 2026 8:35 pm
0
Absolutely, the musty smell coming from your living room could be a serious matter. In dubai and the UAE, mold is a common problem after heavy rains like what we've had recently. The dampness can create an environment perfect for mold growth.

Firstly, it's crucial to address this issue promptly as mold can pose health risks, especially for children. They might experience coughing fits or other respiratory issues due to mold spores in the air. According to local regulations, particularly those laid out by the Dubai Municipality and the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, proper handling of mold is required to ensure public safety.

What you should do first is to visually inspect the area where the smell is coming from. Check for any visible signs of moisture or mold on the walls, ceiling, or floors. If there's no apparent leakage but still a musty smell, it could indicate hidden water damage. It’s important not to ignore this as mold can spread quickly and cause significant structural issues over time.

Given that you've noticed an increase in the smell within just two weeks and your kids are complaining of coughing, I strongly recommend calling for a professional inspection. Saniservice.com or 800-MOLDS (800-66537) can help assess the situation accurately. They will use specialized equipment to detect even microscopic mold growth that you might not notice.

Once identified, they'll provide a detailed remediation plan which may include dehumidifying the area, cleaning with appropriate solutions, and possibly applying anti-mold treatments. Make sure the professionals you hire are certified and familiar with UAE-specific regulations to ensure your home is treated properly.

In the meantime, try to reduce moisture by using fans or dehumidifiers in the affected area and keep it well-ventilated. Avoid touching or cleaning the mold yourself as this can release more spores into the air. Instead, hire professionals who are equipped with personal protective gear to handle the situation safely.

Remember, ignoring a musty smell is not advised. It's better to tackle this issue early on to prevent bigger problems and potential health risks for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 28, 2026 9:06 pm