Is damp smell in living room a landlord issue?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a damp smell lingering in the corner of our living room, especially when the windows were closed. It's been there for about a week now, and it doesn't seem to go away even with the air purifier running. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this, but I’m not sure if it’s my responsibility or what steps we should take. What could be causing this smell, and who is typically responsible for addressing such issues in a rental?
Posted by Rekha Kapoor
Asked on December 21, 2025 7:03 pm
0
Yes damp smell in living room is typically the landlord's responsibility. In dubai and uae, residential properties must meet certain standards to ensure a healthy and comfortable environment for tenants. One of these includes maintaining proper indoor air quality which can be compromised by moisture issues.

The lingering damp smell you're experiencing could be due to several factors like water seepage through walls or windows, inadequate ventilation, or even a sign of mold growth. If the issue has persisted for about a week and isn't resolving with an air purifier, it's essential to address this promptly as it can lead to more serious health concerns.

In the uae, there are specific laws regarding property maintenance that landlords must adhere to. The civil transactions law (Law No. 21 of 1985) outlines tenant rights and landlord responsibilities, including ensuring the property is in a habitable condition free from structural defects and dampness issues.

If you've noticed this smell only after the rain last month, it could be due to water damage that hasn't been properly addressed or an increase in humidity levels. It's advisable for you to bring up your concern with the landlord as soon as possible. They may need to inspect the property to identify the source of moisture and take necessary actions like patching any leaks, improving ventilation, or addressing mold growth.

In serious cases, it might be prudent to engage a professional environmental inspection service to assess the situation. These professionals can provide detailed reports on the condition of your home's indoor air quality and suggest remediation steps if required. For such services in dubai, you may contact 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.

Remember, addressing these issues promptly not only improves your living conditions but also prevents potential health risks for yourself and any other occupants of the property. Always ensure proper communication with your landlord to resolve such matters amicably.

Taking proactive steps like these can help maintain a healthy environment in your home and keep everyone comfortable during those unexpected rainy days.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 25, 2025 2:10 am