Should I arrange duct cleaning or tell my landlord?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be blowing out dust and I’ve started noticing a lot of allergens in the air. I live in a two-bedroom unit in Dubai Marina, and it’s been about six months since I moved in. I've also seen some mold starting to form around the vents in the living room. Since I'm renting, I'm not sure if duct cleaning is my responsibility or if I should reach out to the landlord. Is duct cleaning something I should arrange myself or can I ask the landlord to take care of it?
Posted by Hyun Hu
Asked on December 13, 2025 8:43 pm
0
In your situation, where you are noticing dust blowing from your AC and mold forming around the vents, it's essential to address these issues promptly to ensure both your health and the overall indoor environmental quality of your apartment.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that duct cleaning can significantly improve air quality by removing accumulated dust, allergens, and mold from the ventilation system. Given that you’ve been experiencing increased allergens and have observed mold, I recommend that you take the following steps:

1. Document the Issue: Take photos of the mold and any visible dust accumulation around the vents. This documentation can be useful for your landlord when addressing the problem.

2. Contact Your Landlord: Since you are renting, it is typically the landlord’s responsibility to maintain the HVAC system and ensure it is in good working condition. Inform your landlord about the issues you are experiencing, including the mold and dust, and request that they arrange for professional duct cleaning. In Dubai, landlords are generally obligated to maintain the property, and addressing indoor air quality issues falls under this responsibility.

3. Check the Lease Agreement: Review your lease agreement to see if it specifies who is responsible for maintenance and duct cleaning. This can help clarify your position when discussing the matter with your landlord.

4. Professional Inspection: If your landlord is unresponsive or delays action, consider reaching out to a professional environmental inspection company. A thorough inspection can identify the extent of mold and contaminants in the duct system. In serious cases, such as significant mold growth or health concerns, it may be necessary to escalate the situation.

5. Regulatory Compliance: In the UAE, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has guidelines on indoor air quality, which includes the maintenance of HVAC systems. If the situation does not improve, you may want to contact local authorities to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

6. Call for Help: If you need immediate assistance or want to schedule a professional inspection, you can reach out to SaniService at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. They can provide expert advice and services tailored to your needs.

In conclusion, while duct cleaning is an essential aspect of maintaining healthy indoor air quality, in your case, it is best to communicate with your landlord first. If they are unresponsive or the situation worsens, seeking professional help is a prudent step. Prioritize your health and comfort in your living space.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 15, 2025 1:09 am