Should landlord clean ducts for mold odor?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a weird moldy smell coming from the vents in my living room. My landlord hasn’t mentioned anything about duct cleaning during my two-year tenancy, but I’m not sure if it’s something he should be handling or if I need to raise this with him. What are my responsibilities regarding duct cleaning in a rental property?
Posted by Hana Jung
Asked on December 26, 2025 6:40 am
0
In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, it's crucial to keep an eye out for issues like mold growth within your rental property. Mold can be a serious concern as it not only affects air quality but also poses health risks, especially for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions.

Regarding your query on whether the landlord is responsible for duct cleaning when there’s a moldy smell coming from vents, here's what you need to know:

Firstly, in Dubai and the UAE generally, landlords are typically responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the property, including major systems such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). Ductwork falls under this category. However, it is also important to understand that regular maintenance duties might not include deep cleaning or sanitization unless explicitly stated in your lease agreement.

If you've been experiencing a moldy smell from the vents for an extended period without any mention of duct work being cleaned by your landlord, it’s wise to address this issue with them. Communicate clearly and provide evidence such as photos or videos showing the problem. It's also advisable to bring up the topic during regular maintenance check-ups or when reporting other issues.

However, if you're not satisfied with their response or if the mold smell persists, consider hiring a professional environmental inspection and remediation service. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice can provide thorough duct cleaning and assessment services. They use advanced techniques to identify sources of mold and ensure proper removal and disinfection of affected areas.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing mold growth in HVAC systems. Ducts should be inspected at least once every five years for signs of damage or buildup that could harbor mold spores. Additionally, maintaining good indoor air quality through proper humidity control can significantly reduce the risk of mold proliferation.

If you decide to proceed with a professional inspection and cleaning, feel free to contact Saniservice via 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information on their services. They offer specialized solutions tailored to Dubai’s climate conditions that might be relevant to your specific situation.

In summary, while it's generally the landlord's responsibility to maintain HVAC systems, if mold is a recurring issue, you should address this with them directly and consider professional intervention to ensure your health and comfort are not compromised.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 30, 2025 7:46 pm