Is damp smell in closet landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a damp smell lingering in my bedroom closet, which gets worse every time there's humidity outside. My landlord hasn’t addressed it yet, and I’m not sure if it’s something I should fix or if it falls under his maintenance responsibilities. Given that we’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this issue, what are the typical indoor air quality issues in Dubai rentals and who is generally responsible for addressing them?
Posted by Lei Xu
Asked on January 26, 2026 12:00 am
0
Yeah, the damp smell in your closet is definetely something to look into. In Dubai and the UAE as a whole, indoor air quality can be quite an issue due to our climate and high humidity levels during certain times of the year. The damp smell you're experiencing could indicate a few potential problems - like moisture build-up or even mold growth which are both serious concerns.

Typically, in the UAE, especially Dubai, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and general condition of their properties. This includes ensuring that the building is properly sealed to prevent water infiltration from outside, addressing any leaks promptly, and making sure that the HVAC systems are functioning correctly to maintain a healthy indoor environment. However, the specific responsibilities can vary based on your rental agreement.

If you've only just noticed this damp smell after living there for 2 years, it's likely a new development which could indicate an issue with recent weather conditions or perhaps a small problem that has now become more noticeable due to changing humidity levels.

Given the potential health risks associated with mold and moisture-related issues, I'd recommend you contact your landlord about this right away. If they don't address it promptly, you might want to consider getting a professional indoor air quality inspection done. This is especially important if there are any signs of visible mold or if other family members start experiencing allergy-like symptoms.

Remember that in the UAE, the Environmental Protection Law (Federal Law No. 24 of 1999) outlines standards for environmental protection and health, which landlords must adhere to. If you're still unsure about your rights or responsibilities, consulting with a local real estate lawyer might be wise.

If you need assistance, feel free to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com for professional inspection and remediation services. They can help assess the situation and provide necessary solutions to ensure your health and comfort.

So, yes - this damp smell is a concern that should be addressed. Don't hesitate to take action to safeguard your living environment!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 31, 2026 5:24 pm