Is duct cleaning my landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a significant increase in mustiness in my bedroom, especially right after the AC turns on. It’s gotten to the point where it feels like the air is stale even when we have all windows open. The landlord hasn’t mentioned anything about cleaning the ducts during our two-year tenancy. Shouldn’t this be their responsibility? What are my rights regarding duct cleaning in a rental property?
Posted by Fahad Al-Qasim
Asked on December 19, 2025 5:00 am
0
Duct cleaning isn't always the landlord's responsibility. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, the specifics can vary but generally speaking, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property to ensure it's safe and habitable. However, this often doesn't include routine ductwork maintenance unless specified in your lease agreement.

Your situation with increased mustiness and stale air could point towards an issue with your AC system or possibly poor indoor air quality due to mold growth. It’s prudent to get a professional inspection done as soon as possible, especially if the problem has persisted for two years without any mention of cleaning from your landlord. In Dubai, regulations such as those in the UAE Real Estate Agency Law (Law No. 17/2004) can provide some guidance but are often interpreted based on individual agreements and conditions.

Given that you've noticed a significant increase in mustiness after rain, it's likely worth bringing this to your landlord’s attention. You could consider drafting a polite letter or email outlining the issue and requesting an inspection of the AC system, including ductwork cleaning if necessary. If your landlord declines or is unresponsive, it might be time to involve a professional service provider for an assessment.

Saniservice offers reliable and certified services in Dubai for such issues. They can give you a detailed report on what needs attention within your air conditioning system, including the ducts, and offer safe and effective solutions. Their contact number is 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, and their email is hello@saniservice.com.

Remember, it's important to address these issues promptly as prolonged exposure to poor indoor air quality can impact your health. Don't hesitate to take proactive steps to ensure a safe living environment for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 23, 2025 10:17 pm