Who handles duct cleaning in rental properties?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, duct cleaning can sometimes be an area of contention between landlords and tenants. Generally speaking, who handles duct cleaning in rental properties depends on a few factors including local regulations, property management policies, and the specific terms outlined in your lease agreement.

According to the UAE's Federal Law No. 14 of 2003 concerning the Real Estate Agencies and Property Brokers, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and cleanliness of the rental property. This can include ensuring that HVAC systems function properly, which may involve regular duct cleaning. However, it is always best to check your specific lease agreement as some contracts might have clauses specifying who is responsible for such maintenance.

In practice, in many cases, landlords or their appointed maintenance staff handle routine duct cleaning to ensure the health and safety of tenants. This could be done every few years depending on usage and environmental conditions. However, if you've noticed a significant accumulation of dirt, like what happened with your ceiling tiles after the dust storms, it might be worth bringing up this concern with your landlord.

From my experience in Dubai, some tenants choose to address such issues directly, especially if they are concerned about their health or property damage due to poor indoor air quality. If you feel that duct cleaning is necessary and have not received any communication from your landlord, it could be beneficial to discuss the matter openly. You might want to propose a professional inspection of the ducts by an accredited company like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for details), which can provide you with specific findings and recommendations.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial, especially in our region where dust storms are common. Regular cleaning not only improves the look of your home but also helps reduce allergens and other pollutants that can affect respiratory health.

In summary, while it's typically a landlord's responsibility to maintain the HVAC system, including ducts, you should always review your lease agreement and communicate with your landlord about any issues you notice. If necessary, seek professional assistance to ensure both your safety and compliance with local regulations.