Who is responsible for fixing smelly AC in rental?« Back to Previous Page

In the UAE, the responsibility for AC maintenance in a rental property is typically outlined in your tenancy contract. According to common practice and the Dubai Rental Law, the landlord is generally responsible for the maintenance of major systems, including the central AC unit and its main components, as these are considered part of the property's structure.

However, tenants are usually responsible for minor maintenance and changing the filters. A persistent damp, musty smell, especially one that is affecting health, points to a more serious issue than just a dirty filter. This is a classic sign of microbial growth—mold or bacteria—within the ductwork or the AC evaporator coil, often caused by condensation buildup in our humid climate.

Since you've already tried cleaning the visible parts without success, this confirms the problem is internal. You should formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue, mentioning the smell and your husband's allergic reactions. Request that they arrange for a professional inspection and hygienization of the AC system.

Attempting a DIY fix could inadvertently cause damage and might make you liable. A certified professional needs to access the internal components, clean the evaporator coil, and sanitize the ductwork to eliminate the microbial source of the odor.

For a thorough inspection and remediation, we recommend calling our experts. We can identify the exact cause and provide a certified report for your landlord.

Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment.