Am I responsible for filter replacement?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange odor coming from the ceiling vent in the living room. My landlord mentioned something about filter replacements during our last maintenance check but didn’t go into details. Given that it’s been so long since we’ve had any issues with the air quality or smell, should I be concerned? And if so, who is responsible for replacing the filters—me as a tenant or my landlord?
Posted by Tuan Zhu
Asked on January 10, 2026 8:50 am
0
In the UAE and Dubai specifically, filter replacement is an important aspect of maintaining good indoor air quality. The responsibility for this task can sometimes be a bit blurry, but generally speaking, it's advisable that landlords are responsible for ensuring filters are cleaned or replaced as per their maintenance schedule. This is especially true in rental properties where you don't have access to the mechanical rooms.

However, there's always some gray area and it depends on your lease agreement. If your contract clearly states that tenants must replace filters, then you would be responsible. But if the contract is silent on this point or doesn't mention anything about filter replacement, chances are, it's up to the landlord to handle this maintenance task.

Considering the strange odor coming from your ceiling vent after recent rain, I'd recommend giving it a closer look and perhaps even scheduling an inspection with a professional. Dampness can lead to mold growth which might be causing that unpleasant smell, especially if the filters have been neglected for too long. In Dubai, regulations require landlords to ensure their properties are free of mold and other indoor air quality issues.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you'd like an expert to come over and assess your situation. They can provide a professional opinion on whether the smell is due to filters or something else entirely, such as mold growth from recent dampness. Remember, keeping good air quality in your home is crucial for your health and comfort.

If you decide that it's not a serious matter but still want to ensure everything is functioning properly, it might be worth touching base with your landlord about the filter replacement. A gentle reminder or even a small suggestion can sometimes prompt them into action, especially if they were unaware of the issue.

In Dubai, it’s also important to stay up-to-date on local building codes and standards that pertain to HVAC systems and indoor air quality, as these can change over time. Regularly checking with local authorities or industry experts like Saniservice can help ensure your home remains a healthy environment for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 15, 2026 10:08 pm