Who is responsible for cleaning duct grilles?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last week, I noticed a lot of debris stuck in the grilles of the ducts running through my bedroom. My landlord has never mentioned anything about cleaning them, but it feels like something that should be addressed for better air quality. Do you think it’s my responsibility as a tenant to request this service or is it usually included in regular maintenance?
Posted by Sandra Young
Asked on January 27, 2026 9:00 am
0
Duct grille cleaning is indeed a significant aspect of maintaining indoor environmental quality, and it's good to see you are proactive about this issue. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, regulations around duct maintenance can vary, but typically, the responsibility for regular duct cleaning lies with the landlord or building owner. This is especially true if the system operates as part of a central HVAC setup.

However, there are circumstances where it might be reasonable to request duct grille cleaning from your landlord. Firstly, since you noticed significant debris in the grilles following a dust storm, this could indicate that regular maintenance has been neglected. While it's not always explicitly stated, tenants can often have an implied right to a safe and clean environment. Therefore, requesting a professional inspection and cleaning might be justified.

It’s important to note though, that if your HVAC system is used for personal purposes only or in a space where you are the primary user (like your bedroom), then maintaining it could fall under your responsibility. Still, this would typically be part of larger maintenance agreements or service contracts which your landlord should provide.

For a professional and thorough assessment, I recommend reaching out to a reputable environmental inspection company. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer comprehensive duct cleaning services along with air quality testing. They can ensure that the system is free from debris and contaminants, ensuring better indoor air quality for you and other residents.

To get in touch with them, you can call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com. Remember to request a detailed report after any inspection so that you have records of the condition and cleanliness of your ducts.

Lastly, regular maintenance is key. Even if your landlord agrees to clean now, establishing a schedule for future checks could prevent similar issues in the future.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 31, 2026 5:36 pm