Why won't the basement smell go away?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a strange musty smell lingering in the basement, especially when the air conditioning is on. The walls feel damp to the touch, and there are some mold spots I can see. It's been two weeks since it rained heavily like that, but the smell persists. Has anyone else experienced something similar or know how to address this?
Posted by Nisha Iyengar
Asked on December 16, 2025 1:36 pm
0
Why won’t the basement smell go away? Well, it sounds like you’ve got a moisture issue that could be causing some real problems. In dubai and the UAE, we’re dealing with unique environmental conditions where humidity can really play havoc on your home's indoor air quality. The musty odor you're experiencing in your basement is likely due to mold growth which thrives in damp areas.

First things first, it’s important to understand that this isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it could be affecting the health of everyone living there. Mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, especially for those with asthma or other sensitivities.

Now, let's talk about what you can do:

1. Check for Water Infiltration: Ensure that your basement is not being affected by leaks from above-ground areas, such as the roof or walls. Sometimes it could be a small crack or hole that isn’t easily visible but still allows water to seep in.

2. Ventilation: Improving air circulation can help reduce moisture levels and control mold growth. If you have an exhaust fan or even a dehumidifier, now might be the time to use them more frequently.

3. Professional Inspection: Given that it's been two weeks since the heavy rain and the smell persists, I’d recommend reaching out to a professional for inspection. In dubai, companies like Saniservice are well-regarded for their expertise in environmental inspections and remediation work. They can assess the extent of the damage and provide you with a tailored solution.

4. Dealing With Mold: If mold is present, it’s not something you should handle on your own. Mold can be tricky to remove completely without proper equipment and techniques. Saniservice provides safe and effective mold remediation services that adhere to UAE standards.

5. Maintain Drying of Walls & Surfaces: Once the immediate source of moisture has been addressed, continue to monitor for any new dampness or condensation on walls and other surfaces. A bit of water can turn into a big problem quickly if not taken care of properly.

Remember, in the UAE, we have specific building codes that require homes to be built with adequate waterproofing and drainage systems. If you’re renting, it’s important to discuss these issues with your landlord as well.

If you decide to proceed, give us a call at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a free consultation. We want to help make sure your home is healthy and safe!

Hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 17, 2025 2:58 pm