Should landlord handle balcony mold issue?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange moldy smell coming from the balcony off my bedroom. It’s not something I’ve smelled before and it’s really concerning since this is a rental property we’ve only been in for two years. The balcony has a lot of plants, so I’m wondering if that could be causing the issue or if the landlord should be handling this as part of regular maintenance. What do you think?
Posted by Ajay Sharma
Asked on December 28, 2025 4:04 am
0
Absolutely, the smell and potential presence of mold on your balcony is definitely concerning. In dubai/Uae, building regulations strongly advise against any form of dampness or mold growth, especially in rental properties as it can affect both health and property value.

First off, it's important to remember that while you might have plants there, they're not typically the source of a new smell, particularly one you haven’t experienced before. The likelihood is high that there's an underlying moisture issue leading to mold growth. This could be due to a few reasons: poor drainage, leaking pipes, or even inadequate ventilation.

Given the specific climate in Dubai/Uae and its proximity to rain, it’s not uncommon for balconies to face such issues post-rainfall. However, if this smell has appeared only recently, it's crucial to get an expert opinion to diagnose the root cause accurately. The UAE has stringent building codes and regulations regarding indoor environmental quality that you should be aware of.

It’s highly recommended that you contact a professional inspection company for a thorough assessment. They can use moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and other advanced tools to identify hidden sources of dampness and confirm if mold is present. In the UAE, companies like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) are well-equipped to handle such cases.

If a professional confirms that there's indeed an issue, it’s the landlord's responsibility under UAE law to rectify it promptly. However, if you find yourself in a situation where the landlord is not responsive, it might be wise to escalate the matter through your rental agreement or local consumer protection services.

In the meantime, try to minimize exposure by keeping doors closed and using air purifiers with activated carbon filters to help manage the smell. Regularly inspecting the balcony for signs of water damage can also prevent future issues.

Remember, when it comes to indoor environmental quality in Dubai/Uae, proactive steps are key to ensuring a healthy living space.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 31, 2025 8:53 am