Is my landlord responsible for AC's damp sock smell?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the description of a persistent "damp sock" smell emanating from your central AC in Discovery Gardens, this is a classic indicator of microbial growth, specifically mold or bacteria, within the system's evaporator coils or ductwork. This is an extremely common issue in Dubai due to our unique climate: high humidity levels provide the perfect breeding ground for microorganisms, while year-round AC use and fine dust can clog drainage systems and create a damp environment inside the units.

Cleaning the filters is a good first step, but it only addresses part of the problem. The source is likely deep within the building's central system, which is beyond a tenant's scope to address.

Regarding responsibility, your landlord is typically obligated to maintain the central air conditioning system. This is often stipulated in standard tenancy contracts and is supported by the Dubai Rental Law, which mandates that landlords are responsible for the maintenance of the main structural parts and central services of the property. The building's central AC, including the chilling plant and main ductwork, falls under this category.

Attempting to fix this yourself is not recommended. Without a professional inspection and proper equipment, you risk inadequate cleaning that allows the smell to return, or worse, dispersing contaminants throughout your apartment. A specialized hygienization service is required to thoroughly clean and disinfect the coils and internal ducts.

I strongly recommend you report this in writing to your landlord or property management company immediately, detailing the issue and its duration. For a definitive solution, a professional inspection and remediation are essential. Our team at Saniservice specializes in diagnosing and resolving exactly these types of indoor air quality problems. We can identify the precise source of the odor and perform a comprehensive AC hygienization service to eliminate it. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com.