Is landlord responsible for musty smells?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a slight musty smell in the corner of my living room, which gets worse when it’s humid outside. The AC in my apartment seems to struggle to circulate air properly, especially during these hot summer months. It’s making me worry about potential health risks like mold growth or other allergens affecting my family and me. Have anyone experienced similar issues in Dubai rentals and found out what the landlord was responsible for?
Posted by Megan Garcia
Asked on January 17, 2026 8:32 am
0
Yes, the landlord is generally responsible for musty smells and their underlying causes, especially in rental properties. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, there are several regulations and expectations that landlords need to meet when it comes to maintaining a healthy living environment.

The Emirates Building Code (EBC) requires landlords to ensure that buildings are designed, constructed, and maintained in a way that promotes good indoor air quality and prevents moisture accumulation. This includes ensuring proper ventilation systems, which can often be an issue during the hot summer months where AC units struggle with humidity levels.

In your case, it sounds like you might have some mold growth or musty odor due to poor air circulation and possibly inadequate dehumidification. These are common issues in Dubai rentals, especially after rain or when there's a sudden change in weather conditions.

It’s important for the landlord to address these concerns promptly. However, if they do not respond adequately, it would be wise to seek professional assistance. Companies like Saniservice can conduct thorough inspections and provide remediation services tailored to your specific situation. Their contact details are 800-MOLDS or you can email hello@saniservice.com for more information.

Remember, regular maintenance of your AC system is crucial in preventing such issues. Ensure that the filters are clean and replace them regularly as recommended by the manufacturer. Also, consider installing a dehumidifier to help manage humidity levels inside your apartment.

If mold does become an issue, it’s important to address it quickly as prolonged exposure can lead to health problems for you and your family, including respiratory issues and allergies. Saniservice offers mold remediation services that are compliant with local regulations and standards.

In summary, while the landlord is typically responsible, if they fail to act or you're not satisfied with their response, seeking professional help is a prudent step. Don't let these issues go unchecked; your health should be a priority!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 18, 2026 11:23 pm