Is laundry room under landlord's care?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp smell coming from the laundry room closet. It’s really concerning because it’s right next to my children's play area. My landlord mentioned he takes care of common areas but is the laundry room considered one? How should I address this with him without sounding like I’m nitpicking?
Posted by Jessica Johnson
Asked on February 8, 2026 4:34 am
0
Is laundry room under landlord's care? This is indeed an important concern and one that requires careful consideration. In the UAE, specifically Dubai, there are regulations surrounding the maintenance of properties which can help guide your understanding.

Landlords generally have responsibility over common areas within a building or complex as per the Law No. 21 of 2015 Concerning Real Estate Agencies & Services in the Emirate of Dubai (Dubai Property Law). Common areas typically include hallways, stairwells, foyers, and recreational spaces - but laundry rooms can fall into this category depending on how they are designated.

If your laundry room is a shared space for all tenants or part of the common facilities managed by your building's management, then yes, it would likely be under landlord’s care. However, if it’s more akin to a tenant’s individual storage area, you may need to take care of its maintenance yourself.

Given that there has been rain recently and you've noticed a damp smell emanating from the laundry room closet, this is definitely concerning as it could indicate a moisture problem or even mold growth. Mold can pose serious health risks especially for young children, so addressing this issue quickly is important.

I recommend reaching out to your landlord or property management with a clear request for them to inspect and address any potential issues in the laundry area. Emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe environment, particularly close to your children’s play area. Being proactive about these concerns can help ensure that necessary actions are taken without coming across as nitpicky.

If you're unsure or if the situation seems serious, consider having a professional environmental inspection done. This will give you peace of mind and accurate information regarding any potential mold or moisture issues. Here's where you could call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance - they can help assess the situation thoroughly.

Remember, keeping your home environment safe and healthy is key to ensuring a comfortable living space for you and your family. Don’t hesitate to take action if something seems off; it’s always better to be cautious when it comes to indoor air quality and health.

Hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 10, 2026 2:47 pm