Should I complain to landlord about musty smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the storage room under my balcony, and it seemed to get worse every time there was moisture. Since we’ve been renting this apartment for two years now, I’m unsure if this is something that should be addressed by the landlord or if I should take some action myself. Should I bring this up with them, or could it just be a normal issue that comes with living in an older building?
Posted by Rekha Tiwari
Asked on January 9, 2026 3:43 pm
0
Yes, it's definitely something worth bringing to your landlord's attention. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, older buildings are more prone to such issues due to factors like humidity and water ingress, which can lead to mold growth and musty smells.

Firstly, the smell you're experiencing could be a sign of moisture-related problems under the balcony storage room. This is not uncommon in rental properties, especially if there's been recent rainfall or leaks. Mold thrives in damp environments and can cause health issues for occupants so it’s important to address this promptly.

Given that this issue has persisted for over two years, it might be time to have a professional inspection done. In Dubai, regulations (as per the Building Code and Fire Safety Regulations 2017) require landlords to ensure their properties are safe from hazards like mold. You can call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for an expert assessment.

In the meantime, you could take some steps on your own:
• Ensure proper ventilation in the storage room
• Use dehumidifiers if possible
• Clean up any visible mold and ensure it doesn't spread

However, these are just temporary measures. The core issue needs to be resolved by addressing potential leaks or water ingress points. If you decide to bring this up with your landlord, make sure to document the situation in detail, including dates of when you first noticed the smell and how bad it gets after rainy spells.

If they don't take action, it’s wise to escalate the matter through official channels or seek legal advice if necessary. Remember, maintaining a safe and healthy living environment is not only your right but also their responsibility as landlords in Dubai.

Hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 11, 2026 10:50 pm