Sewage smell from sink: landlord or my responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

My kitchen in my Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has had this weird sewage smell coming from the sink for the past two weeks, especially when the AC kicks on. I’ve tried pouring boiling water and baking soda down the drain but it keeps coming back. Is this something I should fix myself or is my landlord responsible for getting a plumber to check the pipes?
Posted by Brittany Moore
Asked on April 21, 2026 9:00 am
0
This is likely a dry P-trap issue, which is extremely common in Dubai apartments due to constant AC use depleting the water seal. The UAE's high humidity can also amplify these odors. Your initial attempts are good, but a recurring smell suggests a deeper issue.

In most tenancy contracts, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of plumbing systems, including vents and main drain lines. A persistent sewage smell, especially one linked to the AC system turning on, could indicate a problem with the main vent stack or a cracked pipe, which falls under their purview.

Document the issue and formally request they send a licensed plumber for an inspection. A professional should check for a blocked or improperly installed air admittance valve, a compromised main vent pipe on the roof, or a breach in the sewer line. For health and compliance reasons, this is not typically a tenant's DIY fix.

If the landlord is unresponsive, you can reference Dubai's Rental Law (Law No. 26 of 2007), which obligates them to provide habitable premises, including proper sanitation. Escalation can be made through the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 23, 2026 4:50 am