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After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp odor in our bedroom, especially when we open the window. My landlord mentioned that the building was getting some maintenance work done but didn't specifically mention anything about duct cleaning. Given that this is a rental property and we’ve lived here for 2 years now, am I responsible for having the ducts cleaned or should it be included in regular building maintenance?
Posted by David Brown
Asked on February 9, 2026 7:34 am
0
Duct Cleaning Responsibility In The UAE

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, duct cleaning is often considered part of routine maintenance for both residential and commercial properties. However, who exactly is responsible can vary based on a few factors including local regulations and lease agreements.

UAE's building and environmental regulations are quite stringent to ensure indoor air quality. According to the Building Code of the UAE, regular maintenance and servicing of HVAC systems should be carried out to prevent dust and moisture accumulation which could lead to mold growth and odors. This means that landlords or property managers typically have a responsibility to ensure that ducts are cleaned periodically.

However, it's important to check your lease agreement as some terms may specify who is responsible for maintenance tasks such as duct cleaning. If the contract does not clearly mention this, you might want to bring up the issue with your landlord or management company and discuss if they have plans to clean the ducts soon.

In practical terms, given that you've noticed a damp odor in your bedroom especially when opening windows after rain, it would be wise to request an inspection. This way, you can find out what's causing the smell and ensure that it doesn't affect your health or comfort. A professional environmental inspection company like Saniservice could help with this by providing detailed reports on air quality and duct conditions.

Remember, if you're not comfortable bringing up the issue directly with your landlord, you might consider reaching out to 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com for advice. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation in Dubai and help ensure that any necessary maintenance is carried out.

In conclusion, while duct cleaning isn't always the landlord's responsibility, especially if it's part of a regular service contract, bringing up the issue with them might be beneficial. A professional inspection could also give you peace of mind and potentially uncover underlying issues.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 10, 2026 6:36 pm