Am I justified in asking landlord to fix dampness?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in the bedroom closet of my rental apartment. My son has been complaining of chest tightness and coughing more frequently since we moved into this unit two years ago. The AC seems to be adding to the dampness even though it’s turned on almost constantly. Is it reasonable for me to request that the landlord address these issues, or am I overstepping my boundaries as a tenant?
Posted by Ibrahim Al-Farsi
Asked on December 28, 2025 1:30 am
0
Absolutely, you're well within your rights to request that your landlord address the dampness and musty smell in your bedroom closet. The conditions you've described could indeed be contributing factors to asthma symptoms, particularly in children, and are not uncommon in Dubai's climate or in older properties.

In the UAE, especially in regions like Dubai, humidity levels can sometimes rise during certain seasons, leading to potential issues with dampness in poorly ventilated areas such as closets. The persistent musty smell suggests that moisture might be accumulating, possibly due to a malfunctioning AC system running almost constantly or poor insulation.

Given the potential health implications for your son's asthma and your own well-being, it would be wise to have an inspection done by a professional environmental consultant who can assess the situation accurately. This is particularly important as per UAE building codes which emphasize indoor air quality and structural integrity of properties.

You might consider calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com for an expert consultation. They can provide you with a detailed report on the state of your apartment, including recommendations to mitigate moisture issues.

In the meantime, here are some practical steps you could take:
1. Improve ventilation in the closet by opening it during daylight hours if possible.
2. Use dehumidifiers or air purifiers to help reduce dampness and allergens.
3. Ensure that your AC system is regularly serviced to function optimally and efficiently.

Remember, maintaining a dry environment can significantly reduce allergen presence and improve respiratory health for individuals with asthma. If the landlord doesn't address these issues satisfactorily, it may be necessary to escalate the matter through formal channels or seek legal advice if needed.

Stay proactive about your health and the health of your family by taking these steps.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 30, 2025 1:07 am