Should we report the damp smell to maintenance?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a damp smell lingering in my bedroom closet, even though there’s no visible water damage. My roommate suggested it might be normal for an older building like ours, but I’m worried about our air quality and if we should address it together or separately as tenants. Should we report this to maintenance or is this something we can handle ourselves?
Posted by Sandra Scott
Asked on January 4, 2026 8:36 pm
0
Absolutely, the damp smell in your bedroom closet is definitely something worth reporting to maintenance. In Dubai and UAE buildings, it's common for structures to have some moisture issues due to climate conditions and older building materials. However, if you are noticing a lingering damp smell without any visible water damage, this could be indicative of more than just normal humidity.

Firstly, in the UAE, especially during our hot season followed by occasional rains like what we experienced last month, it's crucial to ensure that moisture levels don’t lead to mold growth. According to the Building Code for Dubai (BCE) and Abu Dhabi (ABCD), which are based on EN 15249 and other international standards, you must address any dampness issues promptly.

Reporting this smell is not only about comfort but also safety. Mold can thrive in conditions where there's excess moisture and can emit spores that might affect your health, especially if you or your roommate have allergies or respiratory sensitivities. In the UAE, it’s essential to keep indoor air quality as clean as possible.

You could suggest to maintenance a professional inspection by someone with expertise in this area, like Saniservice. They offer services that include mold testing and remediation, which can help determine if there's an active mold problem. If their assessment confirms that the smell is indeed due to mold or dampness, you might need to take more steps.

In the meantime, try to improve airflow in your closet by opening a window occasionally (if possible) or using fans to circulate air. Keeping shelves and surfaces dry can also help prevent moisture from settling on them.

If maintenance doesn't address it within a few days, don’t hesitate to escalate the issue directly to management or property owner. Your health is paramount, so make sure you're not putting yourself at risk of respiratory issues due to dampness.

Remember, if the smell persists and you notice discoloration or other signs of mold growth, it's imperative to take immediate action. Saniservice can help with this by offering services like mold remediation and air quality improvement.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information on how they can assist in addressing your concerns.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 9, 2026 12:33 am