Is dirty ducts dangerous in my home?« Back to Previous Page

I'm renting an apartment and noticed dirty ducts in the bathroom. Is this the landlord's responsibility to fix? I'm not sure what my rights are here.
Posted by Carlos Van Dijk
Asked on January 19, 2026 6:08 am
0
Is dirty ducts dangerous in my home? This is a valid concern and one that requires attention. Dirty ducts can indeed pose health risks to occupants of your apartment. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, environmental standards are crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality (IAQ).

Dust, mold spores, allergens, and even bacteria can accumulate in poorly maintained ductwork. When these materials circulate through your home's HVAC system, they can lead to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems. In Dubai, with its high humidity periods and warm climate, the risk of mold growth is particularly pertinent.

Under UAE building regulations, it’s generally the landlord’s responsibility to maintain the common areas of a property, including the HVAC systems and ductwork. However, it's important to clarify your rights regarding this specific issue. The Building Code of Dubai (BCD) does not explicitly state that duct cleaning is mandatory for landlords but recommends regular maintenance to ensure the health and safety of tenants.

If you're worried about dirty ducts in your bathroom, here are some steps you can take:

1. Contact Your Landlord: Clearly communicate your concerns to your landlord. Ask them about their plans for maintaining the HVAC system and ductwork.
2. Professional Inspection: Consider scheduling a professional inspection by an accredited company like Saniservice. They can assess the condition of your ducts and advise on necessary cleaning or repairs. For a prompt response, you might want to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
3. DIY Cleaning Tips: If the landlord is not responsive, you can take some preliminary steps yourself. Ensure that all return vents in your bathroom are clean and unobstructed. This helps maintain airflow and reduces the chance of contaminants building up.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is paramount for a healthy living environment. If after these steps you still see no improvement or if the situation worsens, it’s advisable to seek legal advice regarding tenant rights in your rental agreement.

Always prioritize your health and well-being by addressing any issues that could affect the air quality of your home.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 23, 2026 7:51 am