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

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp smell coming from the closet in our bedroom. We’ve lived here for two years and just noticed that the humidity seems to be worse than before, even though the AC runs non-stop. The kids have been coughing more often lately too. Is it common for landlords to maintain indoor air quality, or is this something I should bring up with them?
Posted by Joseph Johnson
Asked on February 17, 2026 5:45 am
0
Absolutely, it's important to address the damp smell and potential indoor air quality issues in your home. In Dubai, regulations regarding building maintenance and indoor air quality aren't strictly enforced by landlords, so you're right to take action.

The persistent dampness could be due to a few factors such as poor ventilation, water intrusion from outside, or even condensation. Given the climate in UAE, it's not uncommon for humidity levels to increase during certain times of the year, especially after heavy rains like those we've had recently. However, your AC running non-stop and still noticing increased dampness suggests there might be a more significant issue at hand.

Firstly, I'd recommend you conduct a thorough inspection with a professional who specializes in indoor environmental quality. They can identify if there are any hidden water leaks or other sources of moisture that need to be addressed. In Dubai, many such services come highly recommended and can offer insights based on local conditions. If you're interested, we have a service called Saniservice that provides these inspections; their contact number is 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or you could email them at hello@saniservice.com.

Secondly, discuss your concerns with the landlord politely but firmly. In UAE, it's important to approach such issues in a cooperative manner as landlords generally want their properties to be well-maintained too. You can mention that you've noticed an increase in humidity and the resulting damp smell which has been affecting your family’s health—especially the kids who have been coughing more often lately.

Lastly, ensure proper ventilation by opening windows when possible and using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. It's also a good idea to use dehumidifiers if you notice condensation forming on surfaces or if humidity levels are high enough to cause issues.

Remember, addressing these concerns early can prevent bigger problems down the line, so don't hesitate to take action now.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 23, 2026 5:04 am