Should I report damp ceiling smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp smell coming from the ceiling in the hallway. My landlord hasn’t mentioned anything about it, but I’m not sure if it’s my responsibility to report this or if he should handle it. Should I bring up duct sealing with him, or is that something only he can address?
Posted by Akira Suzuki
Asked on December 23, 2025 9:51 pm
0
Absolutely, you should definitely bring up the issue of the damp smell coming from your ceiling to your landlord. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, humidity levels can be quite high, especially after rainfall events. If you're experiencing a persistent damp smell, it could indicate an underlying moisture problem that needs addressing.

Firstly, consider whether the smell is only present during or right after rain. This might suggest that the problem lies with your building's ability to manage water ingress and drying out properly. However, if the smell persists even when there’s no recent rainfall, it could be a sign of an indoor moisture issue like poorly sealed ducts or other HVAC system components.

In Dubai, per the UAE Building Code (UAE-BC), proper maintenance and sealing of HVAC systems are essential to ensure good indoor air quality. Ductwork is a significant component in HVAC systems that can contribute to moisture problems if not properly sealed. Leaky or unsealed ducts can allow conditioned air to escape, leading to areas like hallways where the ceiling might become damp.

Given the seriousness of this issue and its potential impact on your health and comfort, I would recommend having a professional inspection done as soon as possible. Companies such as Saniservice (contact them via 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) specialize in environmental inspections and remediation services that can help identify the source of the problem.

Remember to document any changes in the smell, its intensity, and when it occurs. This information can be useful during your discussion with the landlord. It's also a good idea to maintain open lines of communication with them regarding property maintenance issues; this shows you are proactive about maintaining a safe living environment for yourself and others.

Lastly, if after discussions with your landlord no action is taken or if the smell continues, consider reaching out to local authorities like the Dubai Municipality who can provide guidance on building codes and compliance. They might also be able to refer you to qualified professionals for assistance.

By taking these steps, you're ensuring that any potential health risks are minimized and that you're addressing the issue in a responsible manner.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 25, 2025 5:10 am