Should I address musty smell with landlord?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the hallway leading to our master bedroom. We’ve lived in this rental apartment for two years now, but I’m unsure if it’s my responsibility or not to clean the area where the hall meets the bedrooms. Should I be addressing this with the landlord?
Posted by Raj Malhotra
Asked on February 1, 2026 9:47 am
0
Absolutely, it is worth addressing the musty smell with your landlord. In many areas of the UAE, including Dubai, landlords are responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy environment within the property they rent out. The musty smell you're noticing could be indicative of several issues such as mold growth due to moisture intrusion from recent rain.

In Dubai, there is no specific regulation mandating tenants to address minor maintenance issues like this on their own. However, it's important for both your health and the overall condition of the property that such concerns are brought to the landlord’s attention in a timely manner.

Firstly, consider documenting the issue by taking photographs or videos which can help illustrate the problem clearly to the landlord. Note down the date and time you noticed the smell, as this could be useful evidence.

You might want to start with an informal conversation via email or a phone call. Be polite but firm in expressing your concerns and provide any relevant documentation. Mention that you are aware of potential health risks associated with mold growth and suggest they conduct a professional inspection if necessary.

If the landlord does not respond, it may be wise to escalate the matter by contacting the relevant tenant associations or even seeking legal advice. In some cases, a formal complaint can also be made through local authorities like the Dubai Municipality, though this is usually a last resort.

Remember, mold and moisture issues are common in areas that experience frequent rainfall, especially after periods of dryness. A professional inspection could reveal if there’s an underlying water leakage issue or other conditions leading to the musty smell. This not only helps resolve the current concern but also ensures your health and safety.

If you decide to take this step, feel free to contact us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for a professional inspection or email hello@saniservice.com for more information on remediation services. We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy living environment and are here to assist you.

Taking care of these issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure a comfortable living space.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 2, 2026 10:24 am