Is AC sewage smell landlord or tenant responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

This is almost always the landlord or building management's responsibility, as the cause is typically within the ductwork, drain pan, or condensate drain line—parts of the fixed building system you don't control. In Dubai, tenancy laws generally hold the landlord responsible for maintaining the core functionality of installed appliances like AC units.

The sewage smell, especially on startup, points to two likely issues common in our climate. First, a blocked or damaged condensate drain line. This pipe removes humidity collected by the AC; if it's clogged with microbial growth or cracked, stagnant water and sewer gases can back up into the unit. Second, mould or bacterial growth within the damp, dark evaporator coil or ductwork itself, often exacerbated by high humidity.

Immediately notify your landlord and building management in writing. Describe the specific sewage odour and that it persists after filter cleaning. For health and habitability reasons, they are obligated to investigate and rectify it. If they are unresponsive, you can reference Dubai's rental laws concerning the landlord's duty to provide a well-maintained property.

Given the nature of the smell, a professional inspection is strongly advised to diagnose the exact source. They can perform tests, like using a borescope to look inside the ducts and drain line, to identify the root cause—be it a blockage, breakage, or significant microbial contamination—which is necessary for a proper fix.